PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID CLAYTON, CA PERMIT 190
Huge task for Blue Ribbon Committee
GREGG MANNING Clayton’s Vice Mayor
In 1997, Clayton voters passed Measure E, which established and funded the Landscape Maintenance District. This district will expire in 2007 unless voters renew it. A number of people have questioned what the district is funding and whether additional work can be placed under its stewardship. There have been those who believe the District is doing too much. Because of these questions and a need to assure itself that the District funds are being spent it the best manner, the Clayton City Council established the Blue Ribbon Landscape Maintenance Committee. The council recruited a dozen residents representing almost every area of Clayton as well as one representative from the City Council, Planning Commission and the Community Services Commission. The committee was charged to "Examine the operations and funding of the Landscape Maintenance District and to provide recommendations to the City Council regarding a strategic plan for long-term care of the District's landscaping and financial condition." The District currently has a budget of $575,000. With this the District maintains: z z z z z z
IT’S YOUR PAPER www.claytonpioneer.com
July 2, 2004
A blue star hangs in each window JILL BEDECARRÉ Clayton Pioneer
They will make their debut in this year's July 4th parade in downtown Clayton. They'll be riding in a Bronco holding a banner that highlights the more than 30 military men and women from the area who are serving our country. The Bronco will be decorated with American flags, red, white and blue stickers and of course, yellow ribbons. Clayton residents Kathy Rogelstad and Casey Lenzi will be wearing their Blue Star Mom tee shirts and waving to the crowd. "I want our community to know who is serving our country. I want people to be proud of what they see," says Rogelstad. "I don't want the attention to be on me," she adds. But in some ways, it is about the Blue Star Moms who band together in support of their sons and daughters in the military.
Lenzi has a son, Jared, serving a second term in Iraq. Rogelstad has a son, Mark, who is a Military Training Calvary Scout stationed at Fort Knox in Kentucky. "He was always interested in the military and then one day last year he came home to say he joined the Army. I was proud and honored," says Rogelstad. Jared joined in 2001 and is currently with the First Armored Division. Jared and Mark grew up together and their mothers have been friends since the boys played Peanut League baseball. Rogelstad has been a Blue Star Mom for a year, while Lenzi just joined the advocacy group. "I'm the baby mom," she says. The women joined the group for different reasons. Rogelstad heard about the group from a friend and went on the internet to learn more. "I saw everything they were doing and I thought, 'my son chose to do his part. I felt I should do my
As noted above, the 2004-2005 budget for the District is $575,000. This is funded through an assessment that appears on each parcel's county property tax bill. The amount of the funding is about $10 per month. This monthly amount
See Task, page 7
part,'" she says. Rogelstad got Lenzi interested. "I literally had to drag her to the first meeting." Lenzi is happy she joined and likes the support. "The moms (in the group) really take you under their wing," says Lenzi. She's already befriended another mom whose son is also stationed in Germany and serving in Iraq with Jared. "It's good to know that your feelings and fears are not unique," says Lenzi. She admits that being a member of the Blue Star Moms is making the emotional trauma of Jared's deployment to Iraq a little easier. She kept busy during his first deployment by making a scrapbook and spending a lot of time on the Internet tracking her son's combat mission. The monthly meetings and the group's projects are another outlet. "I'm helping him (Jared) and others as well," Lenzi said. The Blue Star
BLUE STAR MOMS Casey Lenzi, left and Kathy Rogelstad have sons in the military and plan to carry a banner in the July 4th parade with names of more than 30 military men and women from the area who are in the armed forces. Moms Bay Area chapter was formed shortly after 9/11 by three Army moms. The original Blue Star Mothers of America, Inc. was established in 1942
History marches on in 31st Independence Day celebration TAMARA STEINER Clayton Pioneer
In 1973, while poking around in a neighbor's barn, Lydia Lane resident, Bob Roberts, found a beautifully preserved red, white and blue banner announcing "A Grand Celebration" set for July 4, 1896
on Main Street in Clayton. Roberts gave the banner to his friend, and city council member, Al Liming, and that was the inspiration for the first 20th Century Clayton 4th of July celebration in 1973. That first celebration was held in the old eucalyptus grove (where the Village Market and
future park site are now). The Boy Scouts cleared the area of bushes and weeds and locals set up booths for crafts and food booths and organized the "greased pole" games. "This was a great time as far as Clayton was concerned," says local historian Elaine Evans. "We were just beginning to get our own organizations. The historical society started, A A U W started--it was just a time when everyone was really feeling an identity, and we wanted YOUNG PATRIOTS prepare to do this as to march in second annual much like Clayton parade in 1974. the 1896 (Photo courtesy of Eldora Hoyer) celebration
1,034,053 square feet of landscaped areas 40,734 square feet of lawns and flowers 2,871 trees 515.5 acres of open space 20 miles of open space trails 7 miles of creekside trails
The Public Works Department's permanent staff of five employees maintains all of this. The Department has been held at five people since 1999. In the spring and summer this staff is augmented with temp workers as needed within the limited budget. The staff spends 60 percent of its time on the work of the Landscape Maintenance District.
925.672.0500
as possible." This weekend, Clayton will celebrate Independence Day with a parade down Main Street for the 31st time. Although a serious shortage of volunteers for this year's event has required a considerable scaling back of festivities, reports Laura Hoffmeister, Assistant to the City Manager, the parade and Kiddie Land are still a "go," and the Rotary Club will still cook their pancake breakfast starting at 7 a.m. at Endeavor Hall. Sadly, because of the shortage of volunteer help, there was no one to coordinate participating vendors, so this year Clayton will celebrate without food booths, arts and crafts and games. Since there is no registration required for the Kiddie Parade, "there will always be room for that child who, at the last minute, wants to don a costume and march down Main Street." (taken from the 1999 4th of July Celebration brochure)
and chartered by Congress as a Veterans Service Organization. Membership in the local Blue
See Blue Star, page 7 Independence Day Events 7/2, 7/3, 7/4 7:30 p.m. Singing Flag, Concord Neighborhood Park, Concord Blvd. 7/3 7 p.m. Free Concert, Diamond Terrace, One-man band Ed Davin 7/4 7 - 10 a.m. Rotary Pancake Breakfast, Endeavor Hall 7/4 8:30 - 9:30 a.m. Patriotic gathering and church service for Clayton Community Church 7/4 8:30 - 9:30 a.m. Kiddie Land near Children's World on Main Street 7/4 10 a.m. 4th of July Parade 7/4 11a.m. - 2:30 p.m. Kiddie Land near Children's World on Main Street
Pioneer’s 2nd annual July 4th photo contest
Tamara Steiner/Clayton Pioneer
THIS 1896 BANNER WAS the inspiration for the present day 4th of July Celebration. The banner was found in a barn in 1973
Amateur photographers! The Pioneer is having its second annual JULY 4TH CELEBRATION PHOTO CONTEST. Each individual may submit up to three photos but only one of those photos will be eligible for a prize. Photos need to be snapshot size (3" x 5" or 4" x 6") and taken during the 4th of July Celebration in downtown Clayton On the back of each photo print your name, address, phone number and whether you are entering the adult category or the 12 and under category. Drop your prints off at the Clayton Pioneer
office before 5 p.m., Wednesday, July 7. Please, do not email photos.Winning photos will appear in the July 16 issue of the Clayton Pioneer. Prizes (all gift certificates): ADULTS (over 12): First $75 for the La Veranda Cafe, Second-$50 for Zandonella’s Restaurant, Third-$25 for Linguini’s Restaurant. CHILDREN (12 and under): First-$50 for Toys, Games and More, Second-$25 for Rocco’s Pizza, Third-$15 for The Dog Sausages and Smoothies (opening 7/24). Good Luck!
Car burglaries climbing at an alarming rate June has been a busy month for car burglars - 12 in the first three weeks of the month nine on one Saturday night, alone. All incidents follow a similar pattern. The burglar breaks the glass, or simply opens the
unlocked door, and takes the laptop, digital camera, purse, cell phone, briefcase, coat or other items of value sitting in plain sight on the car seat. "It's a crime of opportunity," said Clayton Police Sgt. Richard Enea. "It only takes a
second, and even though Clayton is a pretty safe place, we shouldn't give people the opportunity to this." Enea cautions drivers to put valuables in the trunk or take them out of the car. Don't leave anything of value where it can
be seen from outside the car. And, lock your car. At present, there are no suspects in any of last month's burglaries. According to Enea, the Clayton police are stopping cars coming into Clayton that
have apparent violations speeding, expired tags, etc. - in their efforts to track down who's responsible. Clayton police are working with Concord police in the investigation, Enea said.
Page 2
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
July 2, 2004
Around Town Up against the wall at Regency Meadows
NEIGHBORS FROM REGENCY MEADOWS band together to give the entrance wall into their subdivision a muchneeded facelift. Moms, dads, children and friends all chipped in to power wash and paint their entranceway. The stucco walls leading into the Regency Meadows subdivision on Diablo Parkway were chipped and dirty and
needed a facelift. And so a small committee of neighbors, chaired by Judy Pousard organized a work party on June 19 to
paint the unsightly wall. Volunteers were recruited to help paint and/or donate money to cover the cost of paint. Some 30 volunteers turned out at 8 a.m. and worked for several hours. Men, women, college kids home for summer break and children as young as three came armed with with paintbrushes in hand ready to work. Several residents powerwashed the walls days before in preparation for the work party. Total cost for the project was approximately $800. It was a true community effort followed by a old fashioned block party organized by Clayton residents Chip Maguire, Tammy Johnson, and Frankie Quadroto. An artist has been commissioned to paint the name Regency Meadows on the refurbished walls. "We have the greatest neighbors in town," says Pousard who was named the Mayor of Regency Woods.
Camera! Action! Cut! The director's words rang out over the upper ball fields at Clayton Community Park as members of the Dragons and Wahoos girls' softball teams took their places for an upcoming Sutter Delta Medical Center commercial. The commercial, written and filmed by Clayton resident Ken Herling, production supervisor for Comcast, will air on Comcast stations within the next two weeks.
BATTER, KAYLIN HERLING, and catcher Alexa Wenrich get direction from cameraman (and Kaylin’s dad) Ken Herling for a Sutter Delta Medical Center TV commercial.
Chain gang keeps this tradition alive
KIANA MASON, LEFT, HAMED AHMADI and Kelis Millward linked a quarter mile red, white and blue paper chain in celebration Independence Day.
In the spirit of teamwork and American independence, the students at Clayton Community School designed a one quarter mile long red, white and blue paper chain to celebrate this year's 4th of July. The students draped the paper chain around the track at Mt. Diablo Elementary School and all the students ran a quarter of a mile for freedom! The paper chain is a tradition at Clayton Community School and this year's students enthusiastically kept the tradition alive.
Special Olympics torch comes to Clayton The Law Enforcement torch run for the Special Olympics Northern California 2004 took on a local flavor when the torch came over Kirker Pass on June 22. It was handed off to the Clayton Police Department from the California Highway Patrol at the Chronicle Pavilion . The torch was driven to Clayton Station where Officer Rich Enea II, and intern Andrew Sammut took over. Sgt. Jason Russo, scheduled to participate in the run, was out of town and was represented by good friend Ches Fry. The runners came down Clayton Road to Ed's Mudville Grill. The torch was then turned over to the Concord Police Department who delivered it to the Pleasant Hill BART station. The torch run ended in Stockton Friday, June 25 signaling the beginning of the Special Olympics. The recent Special Olympics "Tip a Cop fundraiser held at Ed's
Mudville Grill raised a total of $3,333, an all-time record. .Clayton Police Officer, Susan Burdett, has coordinated the Special Olympics program for
the police department for the past three years. The Clayton Police Department is highly committed to the Special Olympics program.
CHES FRY, LEFT, INTERN ANDREW SUMMUT and officer Rich Enea II carried the Special Olympics Torch through the streets of Clayton before it was turned over to the Concord Police Department.
Oakhurst - Peacock Creek Executive Home. 5 spacious bedrooms, 2.5 baths with huge game room plus office downstairs. One of the largest premium view lot end of cul-de-sac, deck that looks out over mountains and rolling hills. $1,100,000
Pleasant Hill priced to SELL!!! Cul de sac location, 3 bedroom 1 ¾ baths, large living room with brick fireplace, wood beam ceiling, spacious eat in kitchen with O'keefe & Merritt gas stove and quality hardwood flooring under carpeting. $489,000
Oak Hollow @ Oakhurst Country Club! Located at the end of the cul-de-sac, large private lot. 3 bedroom plus loft, 2.5 baths with over 1911 sq ft of living space. Community pool & spa. $589,980
Diablo Ridge @ Oakhurst Country Club! 2 bedrooms, 2 baths with neutral décor throughout with 2car garage. Steps away from community pool and spa. Priced to sell. $395,000
Mitchell Canyon Area - Sharp single story, court location on a large lot. 3 spacious bedrooms, 2 bath with updated baths and kitchen. $639,980
Concord/Clayton Border - Very rare single story condo, end unit. 2 bedrooms, 1.25 bath with updated kitchen with patio. Community pool and spa for those warm summer nights. $259,980
Chapel Hills - Totally remodeled single story home. You will find in this 3 bedrooms, 2 bath home remodeled kitchen, baths, newer windows, entry door and fresh paint inside and out. Outside newly landscaped yards. $549,980
July 2, 2004
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Page 3
Around Town New grandbaby for the Deiss’s
Local Knight of Columbus receives 50 year award
Clayton residents Bob and Karen Deiss have a new granddaughter. Isabelle Lara Sternig was born on May 27 at 2 a.m. at St. Joseph's Hospital Birthing Center in West Bend, Wisconsin. Izzy weighed in at 7lbs. 9 oz and was 21 inches long. She is the daughter of Heidi and Matt Sternig and the Deiss's third grandchild.
They’re ba-a-a-ck
Smith Family Farm brings their farm fresh produce to Clayton every Wednesdays and Saturdays during the summer months from 12 to 5 p.m. They will try and stay until six on Wednesdays to give commuters a chance to savor their tasty treats!
HEIDI AND MATT STERNIG show off their new baby girl.
Dick Alden receives his 50 year pin and Certificate for 50 years of service to the Knights of Columbus as well as Honorary Lifetime Membership. Jack Kavanagh, Grand Knight of the Concord Council 6038 makes the presentation at the monthly business meeting.
DICK ALDEN, LEFT RECEIVES RECOGNITION for 50 years of service to the Knights of Columbus from Grand Knight Jack Kavanagh.
Clayton Pioneer Directory of Advertisers
P.O. Box 1246 6200 Center Street, Suite F Clayton, CA 94517 Office: 925.672.0500 Fax: 925.672.6580 TAMARA AND R OBERT S TEINER Co-Publishers TAMARA S TEINER Editor J ILL B EDECARRE Assistant Editor and Display Advertising J IM Z EWAN , Sports K AREN L AIBLE , Church News P ETE C RUZ , Graphic Design B ETH N EUDELL , Administrative Assistant Member of the California Newspaper Publishers Assoc.
Classified
SERVICES
HELP WANTED
SWIMMING LESSONS. Private and semi-private. All ages., all levels. Ask for JoAnne or Pat Spada. (925) 672-4004
FANTASTIC SAMS (New Fantastic Sams Salon). Cuts, color, perms, free education, flex hours, fun atmosphere. Base plus commission. Great Concord location. Call Aaron, 925-899-8687A.
CLAYTON COMMUNITY SCHOOL at Mt. Diablo Elementary, Rooms 38-41. Pre-school and K-5 childcare. Licensed professional staff provide a safe, caring and active environment to meet your childcare needs. Open registration for fall, 2004. Pre-school: 7:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m., M-F, 673-1488, School-age, K-5: 7:a.m. – 6 p.m., M-F, 672-0388
FOR SALE QUEEN MATTRESS SET FOR SALE. Double pillow top. Brand new, still in plastic with warranty. Must sell. $173. 925-383-1988
HOW TO PLACE AN AD Go to our Web site, claytonpioneer.com. Click on the Classified Advertising tab on the left side of the page. Complete the form to submit your ad. Mail a check for the number of insertions to P.O. Box 1246, Clayton, CA 94517. Or, call the Clayton Pioneer, 925-672-0500 to place your ad
over the phone. Or, come by the office at 6200 Center Street, Suite F, Clayton between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Rates are $12 for 30 words and 20 cents for each additional word. Classified deadline dates are printed above. The Clayton Pioneer will not accept any ad that discriminates on the basis of race,
Abbey Carpets 686-9901 ACME Auto Repair 685-8495 Aegis Senior Living 692-5838 Aircloud Wireless Internet 260-4119 Alice's Montessori 825-4364 Alise Interior 672-7701 Apronstrings Pet Sitting 798-7621 Asemi, Hamid - State Farm 672-6622 Benton, Mureleen - American Express 685-4523 Blimpie 673-9531 Brentwood Dodge 634-9900 Burkin Electric 672-1519 Call, J. Richard - Mortgage Broker 937-2300 Cathie's Creations 672-6442 Central Self Storage 685-2222 Clayton Fitness and Tanning 672-2010 Clayton Flowers 682-4664 Clayton Hair Works 672-2440 Clayton Saddlery 672-6100 Clayton Valley Bowl 689-4631 Clayton Valley Shell 672-3900 Clip 'n Clean 676-9355 Computers USA 672-9989 ComUnity Lending 672-5363 Concord Feed 825-9530 Culum, Angie - Coldwell Banker 932-7336 Curves 603-7555 Custom Art Work 672-3277 Diablo Ford 432-9717 Diamond Terrace 524-5100 Doman Window Washing 207-8745 East County Glass 432-1433 Flannery,Patty - Coldwell Banker Real Estate 210-7480 French, Lynne - Coldwell Banker Real Estate 672-8787 Graham Family Photo 680-1333 Gregory,Cynthia - Permanent Solution 672-8990 Hair by Jim 673-0300 Hair Systems 686-0885 Holy Cross Lutheran Church 686-2000 HomEquity 673-9737 IMC 673-2200x201 Instant Imprints 825-9815 Laurence, Pete - Better Homes Realty 939-7920 La Veranda Restaurant 524-0011 Legault, Tom - Kropa Realty 937-8181
color, sex, religion, nationality, family status or disability. We reserve the right to reject any advertising we believe is unsuitable. All classified ads must be paid for in advance. LET US KNOW Weddings, engagements, anniversaries, births and deaths all weave together as part of the
Linguini's Restaurant 672-6868 Lopez, Stephanie/Rahimzadeh, Helen - Coldwell Banker9327329/932-7375 Mavericks 602-5600 Mazzei Auto 757-5600 Mike's Auto Body 689-2739 Monte Vista Veterinary Hospital 672-1100 Morrison, Peter - Magician 877-624-4264 Morucci, Kim - Kropa Realty 437-1650 Nolen, Janet - Custom Artwork 672-3277 Network Service Center 672-5009 Norman Joyal Construction 693-0059 Nu Image Painting 672-1777 Ouimet Funeral Home 682-4242 Pacific Coast Electric 429-2123 Pro Home Systems 937-3300 Pro Tech Heating and Air Conditioning 673-3776 Regina's Pet Grooming 672-8270 Robin's Ranches 672-7323 Rocco's Ristorante & Pizzeria 947-6105 Shaefer's Painting 1-800-200-9440 Smith Barney Citigroup-Gavidia, Frank 930-3872 Smith Bernal Roofing 216-6461 Smith Trim 673-3900 St. John's Episcopal Church 672-8855 Straight Line Imports 335-9801 T&K Images 524-0010 The Dog Smoothies & Sausages 673-5415 The Hauling Company 216-6461 The Maids 798-6243 The Marble Shop 439-6910 The Sweet Corporation 672-8041 Tipperary Construction 216-2679 TLC Pet Grooming 672-2547 Toys, Games and More 673-8634 Truesdell, Lisa - State Farm Insurance 686-4747 Van-Fleet-Bronson, Remax Real Estate 672-4333 Van Wyck, Doug - State Farm Insurance 672-2300 Vujnovich, George - Better Homes Realty 672-4433 Walcutt, Bill - Prudential Realty 686-3800 Wells Fargo Home Mortgage 287-6921 Wood Rose Academy 825-4644 Young, Susan - All Natural Nails 963-0893 Zandonella's Restaurant 432-1700
fabric of our community. Please let us know of these important events. We ask only that the announcement be for a Clayton resident. You will find the appropriate form for your announcement on our Web site. Also on our Web site are forms for submitting Community Calendar items and press releases for your organization.
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR The Clayton Pioneer welcomes letters from our readers. As a general rule, letters should be less than two double spaced pages and submitted at least one week prior to publication date. Letters concerning current issues will have priority. We may edit letters for length and clarity. All letters will be
published at the editor’s discretion. Please include your name, address and daytime telephone number. We will not print letters from “anonymous.” You can also e-mail your letter to tamara@claytonpioneer.com
GEORGE VUJNOVICH, Broker 6160 Center Street, Suite E, Clayton 94517
Tel: (925) 672-4433 Fax: (925) 672-4424
Each Office Is Independently Owned & Operated.
georgevujnovich.com Clayton Market Update Provided by George Vujnovich of Better Homes Realty
ADDRESS
511 Mt. Davidson Court 3084 Windmill Canyon 289 Mountaire Parkway 1786 Indian Wells Way 1179 Shell Lane 407 Chupcan Place 4701 Keller Ridge Drive 52 Tuyshtak Court 104 Mt. Whitney Way 7 Rachel Ranch Court 722 Anizumne Court
PRICE
$
667,000 800,000 680,000 580,000 436,000 490,000 465,000 845,000 620,000 1,082,000 545,000
SALE DATE
06/18/04 06/17/04 06/16/04 06/15/04 06/15/04 06/15/04 06/14/04 06/10/04 06/10/04 06/09/04 06/09/04
SF
2,694 2,961 2,260 1,749 1,355 1,749 1,595 2,981 2,566 3,165 1,749
BED/BATH
5/2.5 4/3.5 4/2 3/2.5 3/2.5 3/2.5 3/2.5 4/2.5 5/3 5/3 3/2.5
ADDRESS
13980 Marsh Creek Road 3068 Windmill Canyon 727 Black Point Place 1421 Indianhead Way 1764 Indian Wells Way 327 Mt. Sierra Place 990 Oak Street 11 Long Creek Circle 6036 Golden Eagle Way 144 El Portal Place 5839 Verna Way
PRICE
SALE DATE
$ 1,225,000 701,000 700,000 520,000 578,000 682,222 625,000 426,000 724,000 740,000 555,000
06/08/04 06/08/04 06/07/04 06/04/04 06/03/04 06/03/04 06/01/04 05/28/04 05/26/04 05/25/04 05/21/04
SF
2,534 2,684 2,050 1,709 1,749 2,078 1,700 1,378 2,315 2,400 1,550
BED/BATH
3/2 4/3 4/2 3/3 3/2.5 4/2 2/1 3/2.5 4/2.5 5/2.5 4/2
ADDRESS
116 Forest Drive $ 7002 Molluck Way 307 Coal Mine Court 183 Brandywine Place 30 Mt. Emory Court 4120 Morgan Territory Rd 503 Condor Place 264 Mountaire Circle 7 Atchinson Stage Road 31 Atchinson Stage Road 5187 Keller Ridge Drive
All information contained herein is deemed reliable but not guaranteed
PRICE
861,000 715,000 633,000 940,000 600,000 870,000 395,000 695,000 638,500 610,000 710,000
SALE DATE
05/20/04 05/20/04 05/18/04 05/14/04 05/14/04 05/13/04 05/12/04 05/10/04 05/09/04 05/07/04 05/06/04
SF
3,230 2,690 2,171 3,030 2,080 3,548 1,252 2,566 1,864 1,926 2,237
BED/BATH
4/3 5/2.5 4/2.5 4/3 3/2 5/3 2/2.5 5/3 4/2 4/2 4/2
Page 4
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
July 2, 2004
The Van Fleet-B Bronson
Family
Personal Service Make s the D ifference Featured H ome
Wonderful single-family home in quiet court setting. Enjoy the many great features this home has including 3 bedrooms, 2 ½ baths, living room, formal dining area, family room with beautiful brick fireplace, eat-in kitchen, breakfast bar, refrigerator included, inside laundry with washer dryer included, cultured marble in both baths, mirrored closet doors in master bedroom, new interior paint, concrete tile roof, beautiful spacious backyard great for entertaining, covered patio, garden, RV parking, nearby walking and bike trails, walk to middle school. Gorgeous views of Mt. Diablo. $624,950
J o s i e V a n F l e e t -B Bronson For superior service and a successful real estate transaction in Clayton or surrounding communities, call Josie, a 20-year Clayton resident and area specialist — The Van Fleet-Bronson Team. Specializing in: Property Management Loans/Refinancing Real Estate Sales - Residential and Investment
Properties A vailable Wonderful home with so many extras! Enjoy this great home with its many special features including 3 bedrooms, 2 baths and 1,432 sq ft of living space. Located in a quiet court setting. Bright living room, dining room area, eat in kitchen with breakfast bar. Remodelled kitchen features custom oak cabinets, granite counter tops, plenty of cabiniets, newer appliances, Jenn-air cook top and built in grill. Huge Florida room for any purpose you choose. Spacious back yard with above ground heated pool, enclosed. The decking in this large yard and pool area is all cedar wood. Yard is private with many fruit trees. Master bath with crown molding & pedestal sink. Both baths are updated. Central heat and air, ceiling fans, wood blinds, newer dual pane windows, security alarm system, tons of RV parking for all cars, boat and all your toys. $499,000
2003/2004 Better Business Honor Roll Ranked #56 worldwide of 90,000 RE/MAX Realtors 2004 Heritage Registry of Who’s Who Member, Concord Chamber of Commerce Member, Oakhurst Country Club
RE/MAX Real Estate Professionals 1536 Kirker Pass Road, Suite D Clayton, CA 94517
925-672-4333
This darling 2-story home is only 4 years young and is located in the quiet little town of Clyde. This home features 4 bedrooms, 2 ½ baths, central heat & air, formal dining room, eat in kitchen, inside laundry, roomy master bedroom, private driveway and RV parking. This home is a must see! $509,0000
www.CallTheVanFleetTeam.com We l ove r eferrals
Enjoy a wonderful dinner at The Fox and The Fiddle, downtown Clayton, when you refer a successful buyer or seller to Van Fleet-Bronson, RE/MAX Real Estate.
Lovely, new 2003 double wide located in the foothills of Mt. Diablo. Enjoy the morning sun on this inviting front porch. This home features 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, approximately 1,225 sq. ft. of living space, bright sunny kitchen, breakfast bar, microwave, dishwasher, skylights, inside laundry, pantry, master bedroom with mirrored closet doors, master bath with double vanity and tub with jets, ceiling fans, natural light throughout, covered parking. This manufactured home won’t last at theis price! $115,000 Backs up to open space! Many features accent this lovely home including: 4 bedrooms, 2 full baths, 1,857 sq ft of living space, quiet court neighborhood. Nice formal dining room with brick fireplace. Huge family room addition with pellet stove, updated baths and kitchen with recessed lighting. Living room is bright and sunny. Back yard and side yard with views of hills, patio and hot tub off master bedroom. Washer/dryer and refrigerator included. $424,950
Two homes on one lot with spectacular views of Mt. Diablo! This property has everything. Main house features 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, 2,222 sq. ft. of living space. Eat-in kitchen, living room, family room, dining area, beautiful brick fireplace in family room with ceiling fan. Open floor plan and large inside laundry. Sliding glass doors in master bedroom opens to a breathtaking back yard with fruit trees. The guest home features 690 sq. ft. of living space with one bedroom, large living room, one bath and new carpet. Built in 1985 with permits. $875,000
Recent Concord Sales Address 1921 Clyde Ave. 4281 Machado Drive 2301 N 6th Street 3141 Claudia Drive 2815 Glenside Drive 3606 Village Road 1251 Evergreen Drive 3155 Meadowbrook Drive 1328 Sherwood Drive 3945 Beechwood Drive 3497 Hillsborough Drive 55047 Kelrose Court 3448 Thunderbird Drive 3548 Esperanza Drive 1242 McEwing Court 1771 Lynwood Drive 4157 Pickwick Drive 1632 Olympia Street 4082 Carson 4043 Burbank Drive 5163 Brookside Lane 5522 Louisana Drive 1686 Woodcrest 4726 Curletto Drive 1425 Cape Cod Way 4487 Barberry Court
Price 320,000 345,000 370,000 435,000 396,000 388,000 397,500 390,000 410,000 421,000 430,000 442,000 445,000 445,000 466,000 465,000 459,500 480,000 471,000 490,000 535,000 538,000 489,950 500,000 505,000 525,000
Sale Date 6/9/04 6/10/04 6/9/04 6/18/04 6/9/04 6/15/04 6/10/04 6/15/04 6/9/04 6/14/04 6/18/04 6/10/04 6/21/04 6/22/04 6/10/04 6/10/04 6/14/04 6/11/04 6/15/04 6/11/04 6/18/04 6/11/04 6/11/04 6/11/04 6/17/04 6/17/04
SF 964 973 1,132 1,000 1,578 1,200 1,341 1,108 1191 1236 1568 1158 1062 1334 1568 1383 1520 1117 1352 1288 1521 1437 1285 1700 1460 1726
Pending P roperties
Coming S oon
963 Kenston Drive 5476 Roundtree Pl., K 4876 Starflower Drive 2131 Jefferson Way 133 Fruitwood Common
1804 Alicante Court 991 Almaden Court 770 Beatrice Street
375 Grovewood Loop 3143 Wildwood Drive
Price 540,000 539,950 535,000 525,000 555,000 553,500 565,000 565,000 549,500 580,000 575,000 589,900 585,000 590,000 640,000 614,900 625,000 664,000 659,900 777,575 763,000 777,575 825,000 969,950 1,001,950
SF 2055 1629 1717 1664 1745 1465 1919 1792 2088 2130 1818 1933 2018 2032 2091 2242 2473 2162 2395 3163 2243 3604 3207 3604 3211
Bed/Bath 2/1 2/2 3/2 3/1 4/2 3/1 3/2 3/2 4/2 3/1 3/2 3/2 3/2 3/2 4/2 3/2 4/2 3/2 4/2 4/2 3/2 3/2 3/2 3/2 4/2 3/2
Address 1882 Lynwood Dr 5405 Paso Del Rio Ct 1735 Baywood Drive 1690 Tammy Lane 4609 Wilson Lane 1806 Mahoo Lane 5735 Pepperidge Place 3887 Concord Blvd 889 San Simeon Drive 4401 Marsh Elder Court 3435 Chugach Place 4700 E Dessira Ct 3490 Euclid Avenue 1440 Dumaine Street 1331 Edinburgh Court 4708 E Dessira Court 4329 Kingswood Drive 5556 Plaza Nogal 4716 E Dessira Court 945 Deerspring Circle 860 Navarone Way 5406 Woodhollow Court 956 Heathergreen Court 5316 Oak Point Court 5312 Oak Point Court
Sale Date 6/18/04 6/18/04 6/9/04 6/17/04 6/18/04 6/16/04 6/18/04 6/11/04 6/17/04 6/21/04 6/10/04 8/1/04 6/18/04 6/11/04 6/17/04 6/15/04 6/9/04 6/15/04 7/15/04 6/15/04 6/22/04 6/15/04 6/16/04 6/25/04 8/20/04
Bed/Bath 3/2 3/2 4/2 4/2 4/2 4/2 4/2 4/2 3/2 4/2 3/2 3/2 3/2 4/3 4/2 4/2 5/3 4/3 5/3 5/3 4/2 5/3 5/3 5/3 5/3
All information contained herein is deemed reliable but not guaranteed.
July 2, 2004
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Page 5
From junior to senior a bittersweet but exciting time Every year, I stand on the stage with the “graduation band” at the Chronicle Pavilion at the beginning of June and watch those whom I have come to know, and maybe even like, walk across the stage under shining lights to receive their diploma during Clayton Valley High School’s graduation. This year, however was different for me emotionally. In past years, I have clapped and cheered for some of my acquaintances. But this year I watched some of my best friends graduate. Before the speeches even started, I sat on stage in the shadows with my sunglasses on, tears welling in my eyes. The graduates seated in front of the stage included many students with whom I had been building friendships during the past three years. These graduates helped me through tough times and I helped them. Some of us sat for hours just talking and laughing together and I started to realize that these seemingly simple events might never happen again. As the graduates began to accept their high school diplomas, I dried my eyes and clapped so hard that my hands hurt for my wonderful friends.
When the ceremony was over, I jumped off the stage and ran for one friend who has been there
CYNTHIA WEST
CVHS REPORTER for me whenever I needed him. When I was done hugging and taking pictures with him, I went to find my “big brother”. This is a guy who has also been there for me. He always makes me laugh when I need it and puts everything in perspective, too. The moment I found him, I gave him the biggest bear hug I could and held on forever, hoping if I held on long enough he would stay and never leave. This didn’t work though and eventually, he pushed me away with promises to call and was off to grad night. Soon, all of my graduated
friends were gone and I was left in a rapidly emptying pavilion. One of my friends, who is the same grade as me, saw the tears once again building in my eyes and simply said, “Hey, guess what. We’re the seniors now!” This put a smile on my face, but it still didn’t make anything easier. I became a senior as of June 10 at about 9:30 p.m. The transition from junior to senior is nothing big when put into words, but it feels great. I am once again at the top of the school and Queen of the Halls. With this change though comes some of the biggest decisions in life, which I briefly touched on in my last article. As I near my graduation, I face a decision about what to do when I get out for good. Everyone wants to know where are you going to college? I have been thinking about this question for at least two years and I thought that when I finally reached my senior year I would be ready, but I’m not! I am touring colleges this summer as I prepare to figure out which school is the right one for me and where I want to apply. At first this decision seemed easy, but then I found that in order to choose the right
school, I need to know what I want to major in. Where I get my degree from in the future may not make a difference, but my major will be one of the most important things in my life. I am attempting to enjoy my summer vacation before my last year of high school, but I also need to do the reading and writing for Senior Honors English (due on the first day of school) and make the decision that will affect the rest of my life. I don’t know if all the answers will magically appear, or if I will just need to make the best decision I can. I do know that I am not ready. I have heard that the high school years are the best time of your life, yet I didn’t realize it until I am almost out. This leads me to a word of advice for all students: whether you are entering fourth, seventh, ninth, or twelfth grade, remember to stay involved, try hard, and treasure all of your friendships. You never know if you will ever see these friends again, so while you still have the chance, make the most of your time together.
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Letters to the Editor Dear Editor: Kudos for Officer Tim O’Hara. On June 10 at 8:20 p.m., Spencer Wraa (age 9) choked on a piece of carrot. His airway was not totally blocked, but we could hear the air going by the piece of carrot, and he was very scared. At one point, he asked if he “was going to die!” “No, get in the car!” We began our trek to John Muir, deciding to call 911 on the way. After (getting the 911) voice mail, then being placed on hold, I realized my chances of beating the 911 response were going to be pretty good. Then I called my friend, Tim. Not only did he help to calm
Great American Bake Sale on Father’s Day the Great American Bake Sale was a huge success! Our contribution of $655 to Share our Strength will help provide consistent nutrition during the summer and after school for American children at risk of hunger. Special thanks to all those who donated delicious baked goods for the sale. We appreciate your hard work for a great cause!
it was moved to a better home and not removed due to vandalism.
Spencer, but also after his Sincerely careful, professional evaluaFran and Wally tion of the situation, he safeHolmes ly got us to the hospital in 6 minutes! Spencer’s O2 satuAnyone know what hapration was 100 percent. Dr. pened to the eagle? Ed Miles Congress had a hunch where the blockage was, cleared it with his finger (that was interesting!) and we were home by 10:30. Needless to say, what was a very scary situation was Sincerely, made easier by “Clayton’s Linda Minorsky finest”. We are proud to and Andrea Raymond have an officer like this serving our community. Dear Editor: THANK YOU, TIM! What happened to the Sincerely, carved wooden eagle that The Wraa Family was on the hillside along Clayton Road, below the Dear Editor: elementary school, for Thanks to everyone who years? We hope that perhaps purchased a treat at the
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Page 6
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
July 2, 2004
Is your soap box derby car ready for the big event?
TYLER ALCOCK TESTS OUT HIS DERBY CAR and the newly built ramp in preparation for the first Clayton Community Soap Box Derby on Labor Day.
Where wonder turns to
knowledge Special for Clayton and Concord students
z 8-week
Summer Kindergarten and First Grade Readiness program z Free registration with this ad ($100 value)
The old-fashioned Soap Box Derby comes to Clayton this Labor Day. Kids from eight to 13 will fly down Main Street in home-built Soap Box cars during Clayton's inaugural Great Labor Day Derby. Local kids are invited to "build-your-own" derby carkits are available for purchase, and compete in a family-
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friendly race down Main Street. Event Chairman Mike Fossan is enthusiastic. "Derby cars can reach speeds of up to 30 mph in some races, but our slope will be quieter and, we think, better for younger kids' safety." Derby cars travel slightly faster than a bike coasting downhill, however, Fossan explains that they are much safer because the racer is on four wheels and protected by the shell of the car and a racing helmet. "The goal is for the kids and their families to thrill to the nostalgic feel of the day, enjoy the spirit of friendly competition and build the old-fashioned family-values that come from a project such as this," said Fossan. The Soap Box Derby has a long history. The national event started in 1934 in Dayton, Ohio and (except for during World War II) has run throughout the nation every year since. Clayton's Inaugural Great Labor Day Derby will include girls and boys between the ages of eight and 17 from
round program
designed classroom for our youngest students
Northern Italian Cuisine in downtown Clayton Fresh soups, salads, antipasti, pizza and pasta Dinner and lunch daily Brunch on Sunday
hours for Kindergarten Program
local communities to enjoy the thrill of competitive derby racing and the Clayton's smalltown-USA atmosphere. Participants can assemble a kit in as little as three hours
"The goal is for the kids and their families to thrill to the nostalgic feel of the day, enjoy the spirit of friendly competition and build the old-fashioned family values that come from a project such as this." Mike Fossan with the help of a parent or other adult. Kits can be purchased by calling the AllAmerican Soap Box Derby (330) 733-8723, or on the Web at www.aasbd.com. The kit includes a fiberglass body shell, wooden floorboard and hardware. The event committee has made special arrangements for group purchase discounts. Call Mike Fossan at (925) 672-1646 to add your name to the list. For those opting to build their own derby cars or team up with neighbors and group drivers, there is an Outlaw class forming open to racers
eight to 17. "Racers are encouraged to get creative," said Fossan. "We've seen limos, airplanes, even the H2 Hummer can be an awesome derby car." The only requirement is that every car must use the sanctioned wheels. They can be purchased AASBD for $90. And for those kids who won't be buying or building their own derby car this year, local sponsors will provide "community cars" for their enjoyment. Community Car sponsors include Clayton Community Church and DRIVE! Magazine. Other "derby day" festivities include a classic car show, ice cream social, concert, inflatable bouncy rooms and mazes, food and raffles. This inaugural event is presented by Clayton Community Church and sponsored by IMC, the Insurance Management Corporation. Other sponsors include The Clayton Pioneer, DRIVE! Magazine, West Coast Muffler and Sport Truck, Clayton Sales and Marketing and YardBirds Home Center. For the business community, sponsorship means an opportunity to help local youth and show support for local families. All of the sponsorship funds will go to purchase enough community cars so that every child who wants to can participate. For sponsorship information, please contact Mike Calamusa, (925) 2122950, or e-mail mikec@driveonline.com.
Children’s menu and take out service available
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Please let our Advertisers know you saw them in the Clayton Pioneer
English and Western Saddles and tack Apparel for kids and adults Grooming products
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July 2, 2004
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Police Blotter June 14 through June 24 The dates and times shown indicate when the incident was reported to the Police Department. ACCIDENTS 6/14, 10:11 a.m. Four Oaks Lane and Mitchell Canyon Road . Traffic accident, no injuries. 6/14, 10:50 a.m. El Molino Drive and Weatherly Drive. Traffic accident, no injuries. ARRESTS 6/14, 5:36 p.m. Clayton Road. Responding to a call regarding trespassers, officers contacted three subjects. A Clayton male, 16, was arrested for being in possession of alco-
hol and released to the custody of his mother. A Concord male, 26, was arrested for being in possession of a dangerous weapon (brass knuckles). He was transported to Concord Police Department for booking. A Concord male, 22, was arrested for drinking in public and released with his signed promise to appear. 6/17, 6:45 p.m. Lydia Lane. After responding to a call regarding a juvenile smoking marijuana, a Clayton male, 16, was arrested for being in possession of marijuana. He was released to the custody of his mother. 6/18, 6:47 p.m., Marsh Creek. A fifty-two year old
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being out. A record check on the occupants of the vehicle revealed that the passenger, a Concord male, 22, a passenger, was on active probation for interfering/resisting arrest). After searching and finding large amounts of narcotics and drug paraphernalia, the driver, a Concord male, 18, and the other passenger, a Concord male, 19, were arrested and transported to Concord Police Department for booking. The male on probation was released at the scene. 6/19, 11:07 p.m., Heritage Trail. A Clayton male, 39, turned himself in for an outstanding warrant (battery). He was arrested and transported to Concord Police Department for booking. 6/21, 8:41 a.m., Clayton Road and Peacock Creek. A Concord male, 17, was stopped for speeding and found to be driving without a license. He was arrested and released with
Blue Star, from page 1 Star Moms group has grown steadily in the past three years and volunteers are very active. Rogelstad and Lenzi both display a blue star flag in their window, which has historical significance. It was designed in 1917 by an army captain who had two sons serving on the front line and quickly became the unofficial symbol of a child in the service. The 8" x 16" flag is traditionally displayed in the inside front win-
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Clayton male was arrested at his residence for an outstanding warrant (failure to comply). He was transported to Concord Police Department for booking. 6/18, 1:14 a.m., Oak Street and Roundhill Place. A truck was observed failing to stop at a stop sign. The driver, a Clayton male, 19, was issued a citation for knowingly having alcoholic beverages in his vehicle while being under 21. The passengers in the vehicle were released without incident. 6/18, 2:09 a.m., Concord Blvd and Mahoo. A Concord male, 31, was stopped for expired registration and found to be driving with a suspended license. He was issued a citation and released with his signed promise to appear. 6/19, 3:37 a.m., Clayton Road and Mitchell Canyon. Possession of a controlled substance for sale. A traffic stop was made for a front headlamp
dow of the family home as a symbol of pride and respect for loved ones serving in the military. Patriotic projects are an important part of what the Blue Star Moms are all about. Rogelstad recently co-chaired "Food, Fun and Freedom," a care package donation drive and operation postcard. The project takes a lot of manpower, many donations and $17,000 in postal fees.
Page 7 his signed promise to appear. 6/22, 1:26 a.m., Kirker Pass Road and Kirkwood Drive. A Pittsburg female, 47, was stopped after being observed sitting at a traffic light through several cycles. She was arrested for being in possession of illegal drugs and drug paraphernalia. She was transported to Concord Police Department for booking. 6/23, 11:24 p.m., Center Street and Morris. Possession of marijuana-28.5 grams. Contact was made with a Concord male, 26, when he was observed quickly trying to conceal a bag into his pocket. He was arrested for being in possession of marijuana and released with his signed promise to appear. His companion, a Clayton male, 23, was released at the scene. 6/24/ 3:37 a.m., Clayton Road and Ayers Road. A Concord male, 49, was stopped
for speeding and found to have two outstanding warrants (for willful injury to child and for possession of a controlled substance.) He was also found to be in possession of a controlled substance. He was arrested and transported to Concord Police Department for booking. BURGLARIES/THEFTS 6/13, 8:15 a.m. Atchinson Stage Road. Burglary-vehicle. 6/13, 9:16 a.m. Morningside Drive. Vehicle theft. 6/13, 10:24 a.m. Southbrook Drive. Grand theft. 6/13, 11:29 a.m. Marquette Court. Petty theft. 6/13, 2:32 p.m. Yosemite Circle. Vehicle theft. 6/13, 3:57 p.m. Haviland Court. Petty theft 6/13, 5:57p.m. Tiffin Drive. Petty theft. 6/15, 11:30 a.m. Mt. Duncan Drive. Grand Theft. 6/24, 1:13 p.m., Hamburg Circle. Burglary Residential.
Rogelstad and other volunteers spent countless hours soliciting school children and the public to write notes to the soldiers and then two full days bagging all the goodies and personal notes and cards. Each soldier receives a care package containing about eight cards, and he or she is asked to share with their military colleagues. A total of 861 packages were sent two weeks ago and troops are expected to receive them on or before July 4. Rogelstad recalls how emotional it was when the
Blue Star Moms set up a table at Clayton's Memorial Day celebration to generate interest in the postcard project. "So many people came up to the table just to say, "thank your son for me. I went home and cried that day." Lenzi adds that, in general, there has been so much support and appreciation for our military. "I can't fathom what the Vietnam vets felt," says Lenzi. "It cannot happen again," Rogelstad interjected. That's one of the reasons why I joined the Blue Star Moms."
maintenance of the district due to both the lack of excess funds and the small number of people working on the maintenance staff. This has led to a growing list of deferred maintenance projects. The city fountain has been turned off to save water, electricity and the expense of parts. It is now only turned on for special occasions, such as the Fourth of July. People may have the fountain turned on for special occasions by paying a fee of $160. Anyone who has worked on their own property knows that the quality of the soil in Clayton is very poor, and in
order to get almost anything to grow well, the soil needs to be augmented. However, the city is unable to properly augment the soil in all of the planting areas due to lack of funds. The landscaping the city has maintained has grown over the years to such an extent that the risers on the sprinklers need to be replaced with 12-inch risers so they can be above the groundcover and water the area in the planned manner. The city has not updated the sprinkler system by installing a computer controller system, which would detect broken heads and shut off the system and alert the crew of a potential waste of water. In addition to the deferred maintenance projects, there is also $1.2 million in deferred improvement projects. These range from improved landscaping at the city's entry points to more colorful median plantings and more timely maintenance of the open space trails. The committee's work seems to be cut out for them. They meet every other Monday at 7 p.m. in the Clayton Community Library Conference Room. The next meeting will be July 12. These are public meetings, and the committee seeks public input in the process. All Clayton residents are encouraged to attend and provide input as to how the Landscaping District's task can be improved and funded.
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Task, from page 1 does not cover the total budget this fiscal year, so reserve funds will be used to cover the shortfall. This budget covers the basics, but a great
deal of it is fairly fixed in the following categories: z Labor and benefits$248,000 z Irrigation water-$164,000 z Weed Abatement and Tree trimming-$90,000 z Electricity-$21,000 z Supplies-$20,000 This short list accounts for almost 95 percent of the total budget for the District. The district's work force is focused on the day-to-day
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Page 8
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Recycle this paper Professional pet grooming salon for dogs and cats Self-service pet wash available
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July 2, 2004
Build good neighborly relations Mrs. Smith is furious with her neighbor, Mr. Jones. According to Mrs. Smith, Mr. Jones is a "dog hater" who has repeatedly harassed her about her beloved dog, Fido. "All he cares about are his crazy cats -- they are always yowling at night keeping me awake and using my potted plants as litter boxes. My dog is just being a dog -- he's young and playful and would never hurt a fly." Mrs. Smith is very upset because she has just had a visit from an Animal Control officer concerning Fido. She has been informed that her dog has been reported as a nuisance, and she must correct the problem or risk
JULIE BOND
PAWS
AND
CLAWS
repeated fines being imposed, and maybe even having to give up Fido. Now, Mr. Jones states
that Mrs. Smith is an irresponsible neighbor who is gone all day and doesn't care that Fido barks constantly, digs at their adjoining fence, and is always running around the street loose, pooping on lawns and lifting his leg on prized rose bushes. With regard to her claim that his cats are the real problem, Mr. Jones responds, "Hey -cats are cats. Everybody knows they can't be trained. Besides, cats are supposed to be outside -- it would be cruel to keep them indoors all of the time." I'll bet this situation sounds awfully familiar to many of you. Relationships between
neighbors are often strained because of pet problems. Both of these people have valid complaints, and both of them have a serious pet problem that needs immediate attention, whether they realize it or not. Let's start with Fido. It is true that barking and digging are normal canine behaviors. However, it is not appropriate for a dog to bark incessantly or destroy property. Dogs often bark because they are bored. Providing your housebound or yard-bound pooch with things to do will keep him happy and out of mischief. This doesn't just mean leaving lots of toys
See Neighbor, page 18
Advertorial
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Tender loving care of animals is what TLC Pet Grooming is all about. Owner Sherry Henderson has operated TLC in Clayton since 1987. They moved into the little red house on Main Street 11 years ago. Space was tight in the small 300 square foot building and often hot in the summer. However the business continued to grow, and after 17 years, TLC is making a change. You can now find Sherry and her staff grooming their beloved clients in a spacious 1200 square foot building just down the road at 6078 Main Street in the old Riders Exchange building. " I love Clayton and didn't
want to leave," says Sherry about her move. "So I waited for a larger space to open up in town and here we are." She is excited about the new digs for a lot of reasons. It's open and airy and has air conditioning and heat. Along with her full service pet grooming operation, which includes a shampoo, blow dry and nail clipping, Sherry is adding a few new services. In the near future, dogs and their owners will enjoy self Service Wash Tubs where owners can come and bath their canine friends. TLC will also carry boutique
pet supplies including specialty collars leashes and treats. A true sign of a good groomer is repeat customers and Sherry has her fill. Some even travel from San Francisco to Clayton just to have their dogs groomed at
Well, it appears that summer is upon us! With the warm weather and longer daylight hours, many dogs and their owners are clamoring for more time in the great outdoors. Just be sure you use sunscreen on yourself, and bring plenty of
water for both you and your canine companion. There are many opportunities to exercise your dogs that will take you far beyond the scope of local dog parks. Northern California has many dog-friendly parks and hiking areas, not to mention eating establishments and places to stay overnight. Here is this month's pick for a fun and
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We have 3 locations to serve you Concord: 5288 Clayton Rd. 925.825.9530 also in:
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TLC. An animal lover and advocate for respect and compassion for our four-legged friends, Sherry has 14 pets of her own, most of which had previously been abandoned or abused.
Make a date with your dog JULIE C. BOND Animal Behaviorist
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RUSTY NOW HAS MORE ROOM AT TLC to enjoy his bi-monthly bath and brush from owner Sherry Henderson, left and groomer, Janice Walker.
Sherry Henderson (925) 672-2547 6078 Main Street, Clayton
healthy outing for you and your canine friend. WHERE: Lime Ridge Open Space Recreational Area DESCRIPTION: This is a huge, undeveloped area, where you and your canine companions can roam free. There is variability in the terrain, so be sure to wear good footwear and watch for foxtails and burs on your dogs. I've heard occasional reports of rattlesnakes in the area, so be cautious when moving off the main trails. Although the creek bed is mostly dry this time of year, it still provides ample sniffing and exploring opportunities for the curious dog. HOW TO GET THERE: Lime Ridge is located off of Treat Boulevard. From Clayton, take Ygnacio Valley Road to Cowell Road. Make a right turn on Cowell. At Treat, make a left. Stay in the right lane as Lime Ridge Open Space is on the right side with very easy to access parking lot off of Treat. For more information on this and other pet-friendly outings, pick up a copy of "Doin' California With Your Pooch!" by Eileen Barish.
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July 2, 2004
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Page 9
Church had humble beginnings in a garage BY KAREN LAIBLE Clayton Pioneer
St. Martin of Tours, the pretty little church on Concord Boulevard near Kirker Pass Road, is a traditional Anglican Church that uses the “1928 Book of Common Prayer” for its worship services. The pastor of St. Martin of Tours, Fr. Donald True, is a friendly, welcoming Southern gentleman who is originally from Tennessee. True says he is extraordinarily proud of his parish and of the people who have helped to make it what it is today. St. Martin is part of the Western Diocese of the Anglican Province of Christ the King in Washington, D.C. The history of the parish is inspirational; the first services were held in July 1977 in a garage in Martinez. In attendance at that time were a retired priest and three faithful lay people. In 1978, the name St. Martin of Tours was chosen as the official name of this fledgling parish,
which was the very first parish to be admitted into the then newly-formed Province of Christ the King. For the next 17 years, the people of the new parish met at various locations for their worship services. At different times, they gathered in a Masonic hall, the community center in
Clayton and at two funeral homes. Throughout those years, all the church furnishings (the altar, the candlesticks, etc.) were carried from week to week in the trunks of cars. Each Sunday the worship space was lovingly set up and then carefully disassembled until the next week. In the early 1990s, Carolyn
Tamara Steiner/Clayton Pioneer
This pretty little church on Concord Boulevard is the home of St. Martin of Tours, which had its start in a Martinez garage.
and Herman Chrisman, one of the original founding couples of the church, left their home and land to the parish; and in 1993, the present church building was completed on the grounds. The Chrisman home, next door to the church, is still used as the parish office and hall. The interior of the church is simple but beautiful, and it includes an altar and tabernacle that were handmade by two of the parishioners. In fact, all the church furnishings were either built or donated by parishioners, including a beautiful rose window in the foyer and a stunning set of stained glass windows in the sanctuary. St. Martin of Tours celebrates Mass with Holy Communion every Sunday at 10 a.m., and the 1928 Prayer Book Feast Days at 7 p.m. on feast days. The parish is small but active, with about 45 registered families. Parish activities include a choir, a youth group for junior high and high school students, an Anglican Church
The Pioneer wants to know what is happening in your parish, congregation, temple, synagogue, mosque or other place of worship. Tell us about your ministries, upcoming events and notable members. Send your news items to the Clayton Pioneer, or e-mail religion@claytonpioneer.com KAREN LAIBLE
CHURCH HAPPENINGS
ROUND UP OF LOCAL VACATION BIBLE CAMPS
BAHA’IS OF CLAYTON On Friday, Aug. 6 at 7:30 p.m., Henry Miller will speak on “Spiritual Awakening.” Mr. Miller is a special education teacher through the Mental Health Collaborative Program in the Mt. Diablo Unified School District; he has a master’s degree in education from SUNY and a master’s degree in transpersonal counseling psychology from JFK University. All are invited to attend the presentation and discussion afterward. For more information: 672-6686.
RELIGION EDITOR
CLAYTON VALLEY PRESBYTERIAN 1578 Kirker Pass Road. Aug. 2-6, 9:30 a.m. to noon. “Heroes and Heroines.” K – 6; 689-3849. CORNERSTONE CHURCH Held at Strandwood Elementary School in Pleasant Hill, July 12-16, 9:30 a.m. to noon. “Castle Kids,” Pre-K- 825-4787. HOLY CROSS LUTHERAN 1092 Alberta Way, July 2630, 8:45 a.m. to noon. “Lava Lava Island.” Pre-K6. 686-2000. ST. BONAVENTURE CATHOLIC COMMUNITY, 5562 Clayton Road, July 1216, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. “SonGAMES 2004—the VBS of Champions.” K-6. (pre-schoolers from 10 a.m. to noon each day) 672-5800.
CLAYTON COMMUNITY CHURCH Every Friday night in July, Clayton Community Church will hold its “Hot Summer Night” events in the church parking lot in downtown Clayton. July 2 will be a barbecue and the film “Freaky Friday.” July 9 is an ice cream social and “Second Hand Lions.” July 16 features root beer floats and “Ice Age.” July 23 is a concert and “Cheaper by the Dozen.” July 30 is a Hawaiian Luau and that recent family movie about the lovable
CLAYTON VALLEY PRESBYTERIAN For three weeks in July, both pastors of the parish will be away, one to study and one to teach. Associate Pastor Tim Mooney is spending much of the summer at San Francisco
Theological Seminary in San Anselmo, where he is working toward his Doctorate of Ministry Degree. Mooney has been studying in this program for several years. His doctoral study is on practices of spirituality. Interim Pastor Hugh Wire is one of 60 volunteers from around the United States who have been accepted by the
See Religion page 16
Now accepting applications for students in all grades. For an application or tour of the school call the school office at
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“retired,” and he now has a whole new career to keep him busy as he shepherds his flock at St. Martin of Tours. True has a great love for his congregation as he speaks about the parish. He is quick to point out that the parish today owes a great debt to those who have gone before. He believes “St. Martin of Tours has endured as a parish because of the faith and commitment of people who have strong belief in the traditional teachings of the Anglican faith.” The parish welcomes all in the community to come and get acquainted.
Sunday Worship: 8 & 10 a.m.
Busy time for local churches
little fish out on his own in the big ocean, “Finding Nemo.” All movies begin at dusk. All are welcome. Bring beach chairs and blankets. For more information: 673-9060.
Women’s group (ACW) and a Confirmation class. St. Martin’s is also active in raising funds for the annual summer camp for youth (this year to be held in Nevada City) and to sponsor seminarians. At Thanksgiving and Christmastime the church holds food drives to sponsor the Contra Costa Food Bank. True is married and he is a father and grandfather. He was ordained in 2002 after a 20-year career with Levi Strauss and then 10 years of work as a paralegal. He attended St. Joseph of Arimathea Theological Seminary in Berkeley after he
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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
July 2, 2004
The final walk-through inspection is not a means for backing out of the contract A buyer completes a final walk-through inspection before closing to confirm that the property is in substantially the same condition as it was when the purchase contract was negotiated. If the seller agreed to complete repairs as a part of the purchase agreement, a final
inspection enables the buyers to verify that the work has been done. The final walk-through also gives the buyers an opportunity to confirm that the seller’s personal belongings and debris are being removed from the property, that tenants have vacated,
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and that appliances the seller agreed to leave with the property haven’t been moved out by accident. The final inspection is usually a buyer’s right, but it’s usually not a contingency in the contract. This means that buyers can’t use the walk-through as a means of backing out of the contract at the last minute. The walk-through should be completed far enough in advance that the sellers have time to remedy any problems. Ideally, the final inspection should be done within seven days of closing. New homes are often sold before they’re completed. During the final walk-through of such a house, you should make a list (called a “punch list’’) of finishing details the builder still needs to complete. It’s wise to have the builder sign a copy of your “punch list.’’ If the list is short, the builder probably won’t have trouble getting the work done by closing. If a substantial
amount of work remains, you may want to delay closing until the work is done. Your lender may actually require this. Sometimes a new home is ready to occupy, but a few items are unfinished that can’t be done before closing. Ask the builder to give you a written commitment that states when these items will be completed. In addition to completing a final walk-through inspection, it’s a good idea to schedule a meeting with the seller so that you can learn some of the idiosyncrasies of your new home before you move in. Find out how to operate the irrigation, security and lighting systems. Ask the seller to leave any operating manuals and warranties for you. Inquire about routine maintenance items the sellers feel are necessary to keep the house in top condition. How often do gutters need cleaning? Are there any drains that need to be cleaned out periodically? Are there areas of the roof or around
the foundation that require caulking? Ask the sellers to leave you the names and phone numbers of the vendors they have used to maintain the house in the past. Such recommendations are valuable because these people have worked on the house and are familiar with it. Buyers of new homes should ask the builder who they should call when they find defects that need correcting. If you’re moving into a completely new community, ask the sellers to introduce you to a few of your new neighbors. If you don’t have an opportunity to meet with the sellers personally before you take possession, ask them to leave you a note detailing any relevant information. Not all buyers complete a final walk-through inspection. Some operate on good faith that the sellers will comply with the terms of the contract and deliver a house that has been maintained, is free of debris and is broom clean. But if you’ve ever
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exceed highway speed limits. Use moderate-to-easy acceleration. Gas mileage is negatively affected by fast acceleration and fast deceleration. If possible, use cruise control on highway trips. Maintaining a constant speed helps reduce fuel consumption. 2. Maintain a properly tuned engine. Dirty spark plugs do not create the maximum spark and cause reduced horsepower and increased emissions. 3. Go easy on the air conditioning. Limit use of air conditioning, especially on summer days. 4. Use synthetic lubricants. Switch to synthetic motor oil and drive train lubricants.
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5. Maintain your car’s air filter. Install a new air filter as needed. To get optimal efficiency from your engine, it needs to breathe. 6. Take advantage of aerodynamics. Keep windows rolled up if you are traveling over 40 mph. At highway speeds, traveling with the windows open can create a wind drag that will lower your mileage. Sunroofs also disturb smooth aerodynamic airflow and reduce mileage. Avoid using a roof rack; you can reduce aerodynamic drag and improve fuel economy by placing items inside the trunk whenever possible. 7. Take good care of your tires. Make sure your tires are properly inflated, and keep them balanced and rotated regularly. Use radial tires for less friction between tire and road. Also, make sure the front end is aligned for better mileage and a longer tire life. 8. Avoid excess weight. Pack light and clean out your trunk periodically. You would be surprised how many unnecessary items most people keep in their trunks. Every 200 pounds of unnecessary weight shaves one mile per gallon off your gas mileage. 9. Minimize idling. One minute of idling uses more fuel than restarting your engine. When possible, avoid drivethru shopping. Idling for as little as 10 minutes while you wait in line can waste five or six miles of gas. Limit warmups to 30 seconds. 10. Plan trips in advance. Make a list of errands and try to take care of as many as possible on the same trip. Reprint from Metro Graphics
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July 2, 2004
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Page 11
Lawncare is more than just watching grass grow I agree -- lawn care is definitely not the most exciting topic to write about. It's not particularly creative, BUT it's important to know about the basic fundamentals that lead us to a classic lush green lawn. A lawn's performance reflects its care and we must give to
receive. Hot weather care June: Always keep in mind that we live in the land of clay soil. If your lawn has not been aerated nor had the thatch removed within the last year, do it now. Our soil compacts
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Happy 4th of July
NICOLE HACKETT
GARDEN GIRL
"weed and feed" if you notice that broadleaf weeds are present. August is hot and this month we are going to skip the lawn food. High nitrogen fertilizers used in heat may cause some burning. Apply a granular iron product this month to insure deep green color without encouraging lots of tender top growth. Master Nursery's Iron Plus is a miracle product. This product is in a granular form. It's non staining and easy to apply and the quality of iron in this product puts most other products to shame. Water the iron in with a soil penetrate. This product should become a quarterly habit for Clayton residents. It chemically loosens and helps open the soil and lets water penetrate deeper to encourage deeper lawn roots. Always water your lawn both before and after application. September is a time to consider a lawn food containing a pre-emergent weed control to prevent annual blue grass in your lawn, especially if your lawn borders open space. Team is a chemical that controls crabgrass, foxtail,
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so easily and compacted soil does not let water and fertilizer get to the plant roots. Dethaching may be needed when dead matted grass has accumulated on the top of the soil, creating a barrier. Breaking the surface opens the lawn up, allowing penetration of water, fertilizer and most importantly, air. After you've aerated and dethatched, spread a 100 percent organic fertilizer containing beneficial bacteria and mycorrhizal fungi, This creates an active soil. Apply a lawn food containing urea based nitrogen and some ammoniacal nitrogen for fast greening. 25-6-4 plus sulfur and iron is a basic growing season lawn food. Use a weed killer and feed in early spring when most of the broad leaf weeds are venerable. Use a product that needs to be applied monthly, so you can adjust your feeding for the current temperature. This makes a little more work but the results will speak for themselves. Paying monthly attention to your lawn lets you spot problems and fix them early on. July is the time when your grass height needs to be between 2.5 and 2.75 inches long. Let your grass grow by gradually lifting your mower blades to a higher position. (Inspect your mower blades regularly. Dull or improperly positioned blades are more likely to shred the grass rather then cut it.) Taller grass shades the roots, helping to prevent dry out caused by heat and wind. Also, weed seed has a harder time germinating when sun is not present. Use your lawn food this month or a
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goosegrass, poa annua and other annual grasses. This product is only to be applied to establish lawns. Follow the directions on the bag, or consult your favorite nursery professional with any questions. As always, when applying a chemical to our clay soil, use a penetrant to water in the product. Keep your grass height between 2.25 and 2.5 inches. During the hot days of September, we must be even more aggressive with our soil care. Prepare for winter October is the month to spray a lawn and garden fungicide to help prevent winter diseases. Our daytime temperatures should be starting to mellow out now, so mow your lawn between 1.5 and 1.75 inches high. November: As the weather
“Taller grass shades the roots, helping to prevent dry out caused by heat and wind. Also, weed seed has a harder time germinating when there is no sun.” Nicole Hackett cools and signs of fall begin to show, it is time to change your lawn care fertilizer to a product designed for cooler temperatures; one that contains less nitrogen than our growing season food. We must still feed our lawn roots; they are still actively growing. Fall and winter feed should be applied using the bag's directions. 20-6-7 fertilizers contain ammoniacal nitrogen and a nitrate-type nitrogen that works well in cool weather. Nitrate nitrogen will help green your lawn and works for up to eight weeks. Minerals such as sulfur, zinc, man-
ganese and iron should also be present in your fall and winter feed. Keep your lawn's height at 1.5 to 1.75 inches. December: During this month, take it easy. Mow if needed to maintain the 1.5 to 1.75 inch heights. January: After the New Year apply another application of your fall and winter feed, followed by a soil penetrant to water the fertilizer in. Keep your lawn at 1.5-1.75 inches. Get ready for spring February is time for the lawn food and pre-emergent application to prevent crabgrass germination in your lawn. Keep your lawn's height the same as January. March is a great time to spray some fungicide to prevent spring diseases. Rust is a common lawn problem. Control this fungus before it becomes unsightly. Water fungicide in with a soil penetrant, to help moisture penetrate deeper in the soil. This month we expect the weather to begin to warm up a little. Add another half inch to your grass length. Starting in April, use your lawn food to wake up the growth. Mow to a height of 2.25-2.5 inches. Get your lawn aerated and dethatched. Apply lawn food and water in with a soil penetrant to keep your lawn from compacting. June is the month to apply a lawn insecticide. This helps control the lawn moth, fleas, ants and other soil insects. Mow your lawn to 2.25-2.5 inches. Lawns need to be gardened, just like your perennials. Follow a routine, and become more active in your lawn's care. If you have a gardener, ask him or her to let the grass grow during the warm months. Water deeply, and enjoy. Nicole is the Garden Girl at R&M Pool, Patio and Garden Contact her at with questions, comments or suggestions at GardenGirl94517@aol.com
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Page 12
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
From the editor’s inbox
Bugs Bunny had it right
LINDA WYNER
FOOD CORRECTION: On Page 8 of the June 18 issue Bernie Eddy was incorrectly listed as a DVMS Bronze honor roll student. He is a Silver honor roll student (3.5-3.9 GPA).
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FOR
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The crunchy, sweet vegetable known as a carrot hardly resembles its ancestor. A native of Afghanistan and the Middle East, the ancient carrot was purple, large and woody textured, with a strong pungent flavor. It first appeared in recipe form in an ancient Mediterranean cookbook 2,000 years ago, but didn't find its way onto British plates until the reign of Queen Elizabeth I. Carrot trivia is rife with the obscure and obtuse. Howard Hughes reportedly measured every carrot he ate. China produces nearly 275 billion pounds of carrots each year. California's Grimmway Farms
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Common Agricultural Policy for its member countries. Some of its policies are rather foolish, such as characterizing snails as fish so aquaculture subsidies can be paid. A few years back, to appease Portugal and one of its national dishes, the EC recharacterized (re-carrotized?) the humble carrot as a fruit. As a result, carrot jam is now "regularized" and may be distributed throughout the EC as a commodity. (For the botanical record, carrots are not fruits.) Portugal's carrot jam is likely a variant of marmalade, which evolved out of preserving quinces (known as marmelos). It is frequently found in rural kitchens and small town restaurants and is often served with roasted meats.
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Carrot Kugel 2 c raw carrots, shredded ½ c oil ½ c honey 2 eggs, separated 1 c whole wheat flour ½ tsp baking powder 1 tsp vanilla 1 Tbsp lemon zest ½ c raisins ½ c chopped walnuts (optional) Preheat oven to 350°F. Mix carrots, honey and oil in bowl. Add in remaining ingredients except egg whites. Beat egg whites until stiff and fold into the carrot mixture. Pour mixture into greased loaf pan (or 9"x9" sq. pan). Bake for 35 minutes. As with many vegetables, carrots go well in a cream soup. Creamy Carrot Soup 2 large onions, chopped 3 Tbsp butter 6 c shredded carrots 4 c chicken stock ½ c uncooked rice 4 shallots, minced 2 Tbsp dried chervil 1/3 c orange juice 1 c heavy cream or half-andhalf ½ c sour cream nutmeg salt and pepper, to taste Over medium heat, sauté onions in butter until translucent. Add carrots and stir until wilted. Add chicken stock and bring to boil. Add rice, shallots, chervil, salt and pepper. Simmer 45 minutes. Run through blender or food processor until well pureed, and return to heat. When slightly bubbly, remove from heat and add orange juice, cream and sour cream, dust with nutmeg and serve.
Beautiful custom rancher in Clayton waiting for you to call home! This home features 5 bedrooms (2 master suites!), 3 full baths, living room, dining room, family room and office. Enjoy the many amenities and upgrades including the wonderful gourmet kitchen. The nearly one third acre landscaped yards offer you a private serene setting. Expanded side yard access is the perfect place for your RV or boat. You won't want to miss this rare opportunity to live near Clayton's award winning schools as well as hiking and biking trails. Offered at $869,000.
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2 lemons, juiced and zested ½ tsp allspice ½ tsp cinnamon ½ tsp nutmeg
Honey and carrots marry well, as this wonderful ethnic dish illustrates:
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reportedly harvests 9 million pounds of carrots a day! Cows that consume too many carrots give bitter milk. Carrots are sometimes used in the production of antifreeze. Didn't your mom always tell you: Eat your Carrots! Well, maybe she knew something after all. A one-cup serving exceeds the recommended daily allowance of Vitamins A and K and is an excellent source of antioxidants. Herbalists use carrot seeds, leaves and roots as a diuretic, stimulant and cough remedy. Poultices were used generations ago to clean and salve ulcerations. Arab cultures thought carrots might be an aphrodisiac, while the Greeks thought they cured venereal disease. We've all been told that carrots improve vision, especially at night, but did you know that they are supposed to be good for dandruff, too? I'm not sure how one uses a carrot to head off a flaky scalp. And with all this intriguing trivia, there comes some sobering news. Wild rabbits reportedly do not eat carrots. Oh,
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In closing (and because I can't resist the opportunity), I want to thank you for being a loyal reader who, at least for this column, puts up with a lot of carrot and schtick. Linda Wyner is an attorney in Walnut Creek by day, and an accomplished chef and “foodie” by choice. Direct your suggestions or questions to lwyner@claytonpioneer.com
Celebrating our 9th year of service
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Concord/Clayton/Walnut Creek border: This one has it all! Hardwood floors, vaulted ceilings, private entrance, garage, and great patios. You'll enjoy upgraded kitchen and baths, full size fireplace, and privacy galore. Walk to hiking trails and parks, services, and restaurants. Superior commute access! Offered at $315,000
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July 2, 2004
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Page 13
A financial strategy for new moms and dads
MURELEEN BENTON
FINANCIAL SENSE Having children changes your life — in more ways than one. Not only do you add the joy of caring for that energetic bundle to your routine, but you also add a whole new look to your personal economy. And the price tag for parenthood can be hefty. The U.S. Department of Agriculture estimates that it costs a middle-income couple more than $145,000 to raise a child to age 18 (excluding the costs of childbirth and college). So how can you make sure your personal economy is prepared for your new arrival? Here are some pointers to ease the financial stress during your joyful parental journey: PLAN AHEAD. If you or your spouse intend to stop working to care for your child, it’s likely your earnings will drop. If time allows before your baby’s birth, “practice” living on your new budget to ease into the transition. You should also try to eliminate as much debt as possible to help reduce monthly expenses. ADJUST YOUR SPENDING HABITS to free up needed cash. A childless lifestyle may have let you take an extra vacation or treat yourself to regular nights out on the town. While you may not need to give up every luxury, consider adjusting your living standard to accommodate the extra expenses you’ll soon have. Ask friends and family members who are parents to share their own experiences so you have realistic expectations about the less obvious costs of parenthood. START A COLLEGE SAVINGS PROGRAM EARLY. With college costs rising faster than inflation, educating today’s newborn will likely create drastic changes in your personal economic situation, even if they are nearly two decades in the future. Since there appears to be little relief in sight for the cost of higher education, you can realize the urgency of establishing a college fund while your infant is still in the cradle. If you start planning early, the extended time frame allows for a more aggressive investment strategy for the first several years (to stay ahead of rising tuition costs). But, as college gets closer, you may want
to shift to a more conservative portfolio mix. Consider investing in a 529 college savings plan that offers an age-based option if you want an investment strategy that will make these time-based portfolio adjustments for you. MAXIMIZE YOUR OWN RETIREMENT SAVINGS. Taking financial responsibility for your children shouldn’t take the place of financial responsibility to yourself. While saving for your children’s education you shouldn’t lose sight of your own long-term goals, such as saving for retirement. If you haven’t made any investments for retirement yet, consider starting now. If you are already investing for retirement, continue making systematic contributions to an investment plan including a 401(k), 403(b) or other retirement plan, a dividend reinvestment plan or a mutual fund automatic investment program. You may also want to consider increasing your contributions if you feel you could be under funding your retirement investments. Regular contributions also provide the benefits of dollarcost averaging – a simple but powerful long-term investment strategy where you automatically buy more shares when the market price is low and fewer shares when the market price is high. Even though this strategy does not guarantee a profit or protect against loss in declining markets, it can decrease your average cost per share over time if you continue systematically investing throughout periods of low and high price levels. PROTECT YOUR FAMILY with cost-effective insurance.
Your newly added responsibility makes life and disability insurance coverage an even more vital part of your personal economy than in the past. An accident or illness that keeps you from working or causes your premature death could be catastrophic for your growing family. For most people, affordable protection is available that will help your loved ones maintain their lifestyle in the event of an unforeseen tragedy. Knowing your family is properly protected may help you sleep better at night, assuming your new baby lets you. GET YOUR ESTATE IN ORDER. At a minimum, work with an attorney to make sure you have an up-to-date will
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Mureleen Benton is a Certified Financial Planner. Call her with questions at 685-4523
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with your legal intentions clearly spelled out. If something changes in your life — like the birth of a child — your will needs to be amended by executing a document called a codicil. Remember, if you die without a will, a court administrator will not only decide how your assets are distributed, but he or she will also determine guardianship of your minor children. Even though becoming first-time parents may seem financially overwhelming, most agree that the joy it brings is well worth the cost. Keep in mind that you don’t have to manage your personal economy on your own. A professional financial advisor can help you develop a plan to
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Page 14
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
July 2, 2004
Clayton Sports Biel to test his endurance in the 1500 meter event at the US Olympic trials JIM ZEWAN Clayton Pioneer
Longtime Clayton resident Matt Biel, a great swimmer, will be heading to Southern California on July 5 to compete in what is widely held to be one of the most competitive swim meets in the world, the U.S. Olympic trials. The Olympic trials this year will be held in a brand new, specially built temporary facility in Long Beach July 6-14. The Summer Olympics will be held in Athens, Greece, in August. Erin Dobratz, another Clayton resident, has already made the U.S. team in synchronized swimming at trials held earlier in the year. Other area swimmers competing at Long Beach in various events are Lauren Rogers, Julianne McLane, Kate Dwelly, Laura Davis and Sean Mahoney. The United States has a history of dominating swimming at the Olympics. Swimming in
many countries is not quite as competitive as in the U.S., and as a result, there are not quite as many fast swimmers at the Summer Games as there are in the U.S. trials. At the U.S. trials the fastest swimmers from across the country will be competing for just two spots in each swimming event in order to make the U.S. Olympic team. Only 40 American swimmers will be going to Greece. So, no matter what happens, just getting to swim in the U.S. Olympic trials is quite an accomplishment. Biel will compete in the 1500-meter event (the "Metric Mile"), which is his specialty. He qualified for the trials last summer at a Senior Nationals meet in Maryland, where he set his personal best time of 15:43 at age 16. That time also made him eligible for the National Junior Team, which consisted of 25 swimmers who went to Australia to compete last January in what was Biel's first
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MATT BIEL PRACTICES about five hours every day to ready himself for the US Olympic trials. international competition. Biel has also swum competitively in Canada and in national events throughout the United States. He got his start in swimming at the Dana Hills Swim Team here in Clayton at age 5. He swam there through age 9 and still holds some team records. He was fortunate to have Serge Victor as one of his early Dana Hills head coaches. Victor, who had coached college- and Olympic-level swimmers, told Biel that if he was really serious about swimming, he should go to a year-round U.S. Swimming
Association (USS) program. When Biel was 10 years old he joined the Terrapins Swim Team in Concord, where he has swum ever since. His head coach at Terrapins for the last three years has been Ray Mitchell, who coaches the Terrapins National Group, which consists of about 10 swimmers. Biel has worked hard for this opportunity. Over the years his practice routine has consisted of two practices a day, five days a week, with an additional and longer practice on Saturdays. Sunday has been his only day
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off, and that was only if he wasn't swimming at a weekend meet. During the school year his typical day went something like this: Wakeup at 4:15 a.m. Go to swim practice for two or twoand-a-half hours. Eat breakfast in the car while driving to school. After school he would go directly to practice again and swim for another two-and-a-half to three hours. He would get home at about 7 p.m. As a distance swimmer he said "I usually swim13,000 to 20,000 meters a day during practice." That is well over 10 miles per day on average! Biel graduated from De La Salle High School in May. This year at DLS his swim team won the BVAL League Meet, and at NCS he won both the 200-yard and 500-yard (high school distance) individual events. In September he will be going to the University of Arizona on a swimming scholarship. The University of Arizona swim team is usually among the top five in the nation each year, and the university is known for having one of the top two collegiate distance swim programs in the United States. As for the U.S. Olympic swim trials, Biel said, "My goal is to do as well as I can. I just want to be as prepared as I can be, and do my best. If I am more tired than I have ever been before when I get out of the pool after my race, I will be happy". At only 17 years old, Biel not only has an outside chance this year to make the U.S. team, but he should be even better positioned in 2008 when he will be 21 and again in 2012 at age 25. Male swimmers tend to reach their peak between ages 21 and 25. "My strategy for distance swimming is what is called
Sports Shorts
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FALCONS FOOTBALL/CHEER FINAL SIGNUPS. The Clayton Valley Falcons will be holding their final signups for youth football for ages 7-14 and for a few openings for cheerleading for ages 8 - 12 on July 14 from 6 - 8:30 p.m. at Aladino's Pizzeria at 5400 Ygnacio Valley Rd. in Concord. Copy of birth certificate, passport or green card is required prior to practices on Aug. 2. For more information for cheer call 8250277 and for football 927-7377
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'negative splitting,'" Biel says. "I start smooth and slow and I try to build and get faster on each lap throughout my race. My split times get faster instead of slower. My last four laps will be faster than my first four laps." Biel said he will rest beginning July 5. That rest together with his strategy and attitude should give him a good chance to beat his best time. Biel explained that the trials this year could be one of the biggest swim meets ever. About 15,000 people are expected to attend two sessions at the meet each day. While there are about 600,000 USS year-round swimmers in the country, about 600 swimmers qualified for the trials. In the 1500-meter race, the two U.S. swimmers in the 2000 Summer Olympics were Eric Vendt and Chris Thompson. Both are now post-collegiate swimmers and will compete again at Long Beach. Vendt was the first American to break the 15-minute mile. Thompson won the Silver Medal in the 2000 Olympics and is the American record holder in the event with a 14:58 time. An Australian with a time of 14:38 holds the world record. The 1500-meter preliminary race that Biel will be swimming in will be held on Tuesday, July 13. The top eight swimmers will make the finals on Wednesday to determine which two swimmers will make the team. Biel is one of only three high schoolage swimmers who qualified for the mile at the trials. There will be a total of 33 swimmers competing in the event. "I’ve swum against all of them before so I know them and they know me," Biel said. It really comes down to who is faster on the given day.
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July 2, 2004
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Page 15
Clayton Sports CVLL champion teams head to District TOC JIM ZEWAN Clayton Pioneer
The Tournament of Champions has begun for Clayton Valley Little League teams. The top team in each age division will represent CVLL in games against other leagues' top teams in District 4 to determine the overall championship team in the area. The tournament is single elimination. The CVLL Minor A Division's Diamondbacks, a group of boys ages 9-12, won both the first and second
Shorts,
from page 14 DVC ALL COMERS SUMMER TRACK MEET SERIES. Diablo Valley College in Pleasant Hill will be holding its All Comers Track Meet Series July 2, July 23, July 30 and Aug. 6 with field events and first running event at 5:30 p.m. Open to masters, college, high school and youths. Entry fees $4 per entrant with teams of 10 or more $3.50 per athlete. Spectators-$2. Call 6851230 ext 2258. CLAYTON VALLEY SUMMER BASKETBALL CAMP. CV High School is offering a summer basketball camp for boys and girls entering grades 5-8 during August 16-20 from 8:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Cost of $75 includes T-shirt. Call 672-3110 for more information. OAKHURST COUNTRY CLUB JUNIOR GOLF CAMPS Oakhurst's golf professionals are holding several junior golf camps during the summer which are open to the public. Young golfers age 7 and up can learn the rules, etiquette and how to play this game early in life for years of lifelong enjoyment. Call the Pro Shop at 672-9737, ext. 201 for information, dates and registration.
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halves of the regular season with a 15-3 record. Winning both halves automatically put the Diamondbacks into the tournament without a playoff game. The tournament began Saturday, June 26 for the Dbacks, with their first game scheduled against Antioch at the Clayton Valley Little League fields. Other CVLL Divisions also will send their top teams to the regional tournament. In most cases the winners of each division are determined by playoffs between the first and second half regular season winners. In the CVLL Major Division, the Yankees and A's had their playoff game on Saturday, June 19. The Yankees, who had a 17-2 record during the regular season, won 5-2 in a well-played contest with both teams dis-
Photo courtesy of CVLL Diamondbacks CVLL MINOR A DIAMONDBACKS CELEBRATE after recent playoff victory over the A's. Bottom row from left to right: Ben "Change Up" Hardy, Michael "Commercial" Houseman, Ryan "Sneaky" Snyder Richard "Smiley" Filgas, T.J. "Hot Shot" Bossett Jr. Middle row from left to right: Jonathan "JK" Kim, Sammy "Shin Killer" Marchant, Garrett "Shades" Lemos, Jimmy "Knuckler" Leedom, Taylor "Daddy Long Legs" Bredell, Drake "Seeder" Roach, Brandon "Lobo" Lobo. Top (3rd) Row from left to right: Manager, Chris Snyder and Coach, Brad Marchant
playing good pitching and strong defense. The A's had won the division playoff to
DAVE GRAY GRAY ON GOLF For the more accomplished player, hooking the golf ball can be a problem and it always comes at the wrong time. I've pull-hooked the ball into the cabbage on occasion and it's normally under big pressure situations. I remember one time playing in a tournament with a
young player of the opposite sex, and several times during the round, her tee shots would hook sharply to the left. I said to her, "So, Carol, how long have you been a hooker?" Well, after the proctologist removed my putter, I figured a better choice of words would have been, "My, Carol, you're sure moving the ball quite harshly from right to left today." I would then have given her this advice. The dreaded pullhook is generally initiated by an insufficient shoulder turn on the back swing. This in turn causes the shoulders to lead the down swing. The right shoulder is pulled out and over, and the ball winds up moving to the left. To cure this, concentrate on taking a full shoulder turn. Then, starting the down swing, make the first move with your
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league with a 12-6 record. The Junior Division is comprised of 13- and 14-year-olds. Players on the team are Antonio Acosta, Alex Campomanes, Mike Cinto, Matt Condrey, Alex Duenas, Luke Heisinger, Niklas Heisinger, David Metrock, Dex Reber, Andrew Roberts, Chas Rowe and Kyle Sullivan. The manager is Steve Reber, with coaches Nik Heisinger and Ken Acosta. The Indians played their first game against South Oakland on Friday, June 25. Information regarding the other baseball and softball divisions was not available at press time.
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Yankees during the regular season. Derek Vines manages the Yankees, with coaches Dana Livingston and Dick Couchot. The Yankees played their first tournament game Friday, June 25 against the South Oakland Rangers at Chabot Recreation Center in Oakland. The Yankees consist mostly of 11- and 12-year-olds with one 10-year-old. The players include: Connor Bradley, Conrad Carlson, Justin Couchot, Christian Duenas, Sam Houston, Ian Livingston, Danny Pruitt, Mason Rush, Nick Sharapata, James Shaw, Thomas Sprague and Nick Waller. The Indians from CVLL's Junior Division won their
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hips and legs, letting the shoulders lag behind. This will keep them in the correct plane and behind the shot at impact. (Sometime after that tournament, I married Carol. After 14 years of marriage, I've only been back to see the doc a few dozen times!)
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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
July 2, 2004
Book Review
Advertorial
Wood Rose Academy “Cooking for Mr. Latte”is moves to new campus a tasty summer read opportunities for children in kindergarten through eighth grade. An open house at the new school is scheduled for July 8 at 7 p.m. Parents are invited to come hear information about the school and tour the new campus which now provides fenced in play and sports areas for the children. W h i l e Wood Rose Academy features a new spacious facility, classSMALL CLASS SIZE is one of the attrac- es remain small, which tive features of Wood Rose Academy. is one of the a spacious setting on Cowell attractive features of the Road between Treat and Christian school. Primary Ygnacio Valley Roads. The Teacher and Head of School, school features educational Susan Chabot, favors Wood Come September, Wood Rose Academy will have a brand new campus. The private elementary and intermediate school is moving from Bonifacio Street in Concord to
CITY OF CLAYTON NOTICE OF ELECTION NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a General Municipal Election will be held in the City of Clayton on Tuesday, November 2, 2004, for the following officers: City of Clayton 3 Councilmembers of the City Council to be elected at-large for full terms of four years. A nominee must be a registered voter residing within the city. Nomination petitions may be obtained from the City Clerk, Clayton, CA, 94517, commencing on July 12, 2004, the 113th day before the election and shall be filed with the City Clerk either in person or by certified mail, received no later than 5:00 P.M., August 6, 2004, the 88th day before the election. Candidates may submit a candidate statement, 200 words in length. Statements must be submitted in block form; standard upper and lowercase words; no bold, underlined or italic words; and no bullets, stars or asterisks. The City Clerk shall submit a Certificate of Facts to the City Council (1) if no one or only one candidate files for any office which is elected on a city wide basis, or (2) if no one or only one candidate files for any office which is elected from or by a city legislative district, or (3) if the number of persons filing for offices elected at large does not exceed the number of seats to be filled. The City Council shall adopt one of the courses of action outlined in Elections Code Section 10229. Polls will be open Election Day between 7 a.m. and 8 p.m. Dated:
June 14, 2004
Rhonda Basore City Clerk
Rose’s small class size which she explains, fosters an inviting learning environment and promotes ‘strong, lifelong friendships. “The smaller class size provides a comfortable setting where students feel confident about asking questions,” says Chabot. The Academy’s mission is to integrate academic excellence and the exercise of human and Christian virtues. The curriculum includes reading, writing, mathematics, classical literature, history, geography, fine arts, science and Spanish. Religion classes in the Catholic faith are offered to all students and non-Catholic students may opt for a separate study session. Wood Rose Academy is currently accepting applications for the 2004-2005 school year. For more information call the Academy at 925 825-4644 or visit www.woodroseacademy.org.
CYNTHIA GREGORY Clayton Pioneer
“Cooking for Mr. Latte,” is New York Times food writer Amanda Hesser’s memoir of romance and food that will tickle your taste buds and make you hungry for more. The book was given to me by a dear friend from Sonoma, and it took me weeks to crack the cover, but once I did, I couldn’t put it down. Part diary of a romance and part menu planner, “Cooking for Mr. Latte” is a tasty summer read. As a food writer in New York, Hesser is accustomed to eating at the best restaurants with the most discriminating of diners, but when she meets the man she calls Mr. Latte on a blind date at a questionable bistro where the lighting is poor and the fare is worse, it doesn’t bode well for romance. Amanda is horrified by Mr. Latte’s pedestrian palate: He prefers burgers to steak tartare, artificial sweetener to raw sugar in his coffee, and he
CITY OF CLAYTON IS NOW ACCEPTING
COMMUNITY SERVICES COMMISSION APPLICATIONS FOR 2004-2006 Appointments currently held by: Barbara Dwyer Sebastian Jacobs Linda Smith Natalie Harley, student member Will expire June 30, 2004. The two-year terms are from July 1, 2004 until June 30, 2006 Requirements and Responsibilities: 1. The stipend for Community Services Commissioners is $75 per month (when a meeting is held); the alternate and student members are volunteer positions. 2. The applicant must be a resident of Clayton. 3. The Community Services Commission meets the second Thursday of each month at 7:00 p.m., and from time to time may have more than one meeting a month. 4. Applicants should demonstrate service and dedication to the community. 5. The Community Services Commission is an advisory body to the City Council, is responsible for recommending user fees and policies for use of City facilities and sponsored community activities. 6. The Community Services Commission also helps coordinate the Fourth of July celebration; Clayton Clean Up Days; and New Years Eve celebration. How to Apply:
Published on June 30, 2004 (Contra Costa Times, Clayton Pioneer). Si desea obtener la version en Espanol de este aviso legal, puede solicitor una copia de la misma llamando al Departamento de Elecciones, (925) 646-4166.
Applications may be obtained: In person: Clayton City Hall 6000 Heritage Trail By mail: Call City offices at 925/673-7300 E-mail: contact rbasore@ci.clayton.ca.us City's web site: www.ci.clayton.ca.us (under blue tab) Return the completed application to the City Clerk.
is lukewarm on the issue of fig vinaigrette. Both the reader and our heroine are led to wonder: Can this relationship be saved, or is it a recipe for disaster? But lo, the relationship falters, then recovers its balance and eventually simmers into something scrumptious. Hesser cooks for Mr. Latte, shares recipes with his mother, recreates family recipes with her own grandmother and, when lonely, she whips up her own version of comfort food. The recipes included in the book vary from complex and exotic to downhome and humble. There is something for everyone’s taste. “Cooking for Mr. Latte” is an amiable story intertwined with fabulous recipes that will revive both the belief in love in a world gone haywire for speed-dating, and the inherent goodness in a meal prepared with grace and passion. Think “Like Water for Chocolate,” without the anguish. Think “Sex and the City” with a generous helping of cream
brullee. If you’re the type of person who finds pleasure in thumbing through the beautiful pages of the trendiest cookbooks, you will love this novel. If you’re the type of reader who enjoys a well told story, but prefer your bread white and your mayonnaise mild, you may be surprised to come to believe as Hesser does: Eating is not just a recreational and biological necessity, but a pleasure to be savored and shared, like a hearty rigatoni with white Bolognese sauce, like pork braised in milk and cream, like toast points slathered with Belgium chocolate and sprinkled with coarse salt. Hesser’s artfully measured prose will seduce the reader into sharing her belief that life is meant to be savored one tantalizing taste at a time — and that it is best served with a happy and sweet ending. Buy your copy of this book at Bonanza Street Books in the Clayton Station.
Religion: Church Happenings from page 9 Amity Foundation in China to serve in a summer program designed to build ties of understanding and affection between the people of China and the United States. Wire will be assisting middle school teachers around the city of NanChong to practice and improve their skills with the English language. For more information: 672-4848. ST. BONAVENTURE CATHOLIC COMMUNITY On May 22, the Concord Council of the Knights of Columbus was honored by the State Council for their “Outstanding Performance for Youth Activities.” Claire Tryon, a St. Bonaventure parishioner and Clayton resident, was specifically honored at this gathering for his position as State Chairman for World Youth Day 2005. Claire is also the youth director for the Bishop Begin Council of the Knights of Columbus in Bay Point. The parish celebrates St. Bonaventure Day on the weekend of July 17 and 18. On Saturday, July 17, “An Evening in Margaritaville” will be held at the Walnut Creek Elks Lodge. The evening will include dinner, a dance with a DJ and an exhibit of parish history. All are invited; tickets are on sale at the parish office and
after weekend Masses. On Sunday, July 18, “Festival Hispano,” sponsored by the Latino members of the parish, will be held on the parish grounds. All are invited. For more information: 6725800. ST. JOHN’S EPISCOPAL CHURCH On Sunday, July 4, the parish will gather for only one worship service, to be held at 9 a.m. All are invited to wear red, white and blue and to sing patriotic songs. Following the service, St. John’s will sponsor a game booth in Kiddieland at the Clayton Fourth of July celebration. On July 18, the parish will hold the July barbecue lunch after the 10 a.m. folk service. The lunch is open to all and includes a Summer Readers’ Book Swap. The July Cine-Sancta Friday at the Flicks will be on July 23 — time and place to be announced. On July 31, members of the parish family will caravan to Bishop’s Ranch in Healdsburg for a celebration of Bishop Swing’s quarter century of leadership in the diocese. For more information: 6728855.
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Page 17
Clayton Community Calendar PLEASE SUBMIT YOUR CLAYTON COMMUNITY CALENDAR EVENTS BY 5 P.M., JULY 7 FOR THE JULY 16 ISSUE. FAX TO 672-6580 OR E-MAIL calendar@claytonpioneer.com
EVENTS & ENTERTAINMENT ONGOING THROUGH SUMMER Produce Market @ Skipolini’s parking lot 12 p.m. - 5 p.m. Wednesday and Saturday Fresh produce for sale by local Smith family farm. CURRENT Theatrical Auditions for End of Summer Theater Camp @ Civic Arts Education Auditions for end of summer theater camp August 2-20. Professional actor/writer/director Caroline Altman offers children 10-15 opportunity to work with professional performers during intensive three-week training program. Includes auditioning techniques, backstage work, costume and set design, voice training, choreography, makeup and improvisation. The program culminates in performance at Dean Lesher Regional Center August 21. Call for Sally Horarty, 376-6457 or Dave Hanney 943-5846 for appointment. Civic Arts Education, Walnut Creek. ONGOING - SEPTEMBER 26 Unfinished Quilts of the 30’s & 40’s @ Clayton Historical Society Museum 2-4 p.m. and by appointment. Everyday items from the 1930s and 1940s will also be on display including pictures, depression glass, clothing, toys and books. A finished “Lone Star” quilt from 1942 will be displayed. Clayton Historical Society Museum, 672-0240, 6101 Main Street, Clayton. ONGOING - AUGUST Concord/Clayton Mt. Diablo Region YMCA Spring and summer programs at the Clayton Community Gym for adults and children including hockey, basketball, soccer volleyball, fitness classes and art classes. Call 889-1600 for information. Clayton Community Gym, 700 Gym Court, Clayton. ONGOING - AUGUST 28 Bound for Books, Summer Reading Program @ Clayton Community Library Keep up your reading during the summer and win exciting prizes. See librarian for details. Clayton Community Library, 6125 Clayton Road, Clayton. ONGOING - AUGUST YMCA 1/2 Day Sports Camps @ Clayton Community Gym 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. 1/2 day sports camps for boys and girls entering grades 1-6. Coaches will focus on fundamentals, skill improvement, learning the basics of offensive and defensive strategy, and sportsmanship through age appropriate games and activities. Camps in baseball, flag football, basketball, volleyball, soccer, and super sports. Clayton Community Gym, 700 Gym Court, Clayton. JULY 2, 9, 16, 23 Digital Thunder Bowling @ Clayton Valley Bowl 4-6 p.m. Digital Thunder Bowling on Friday afternoons for kids includes music, lights and
bumper lanes. 689-4631, Clayton Valley Bowl, 5300 Clayton Road, Concord. ONGOING - JULY 29 Patty Cakes @ Clayton Community Library 11 a.m. Story time for birth to 3 years. Clayton Community Library, 6125 Clayton Road, Clayton. JULY 1 - JULY 29 Make A Wish Foundation Fundraiser @ Cold Stone Creamery, Clayton Station Annual fundraiser for the Make a Wish Foundation. All Coldstone Creameries are collecting money for stars in July to raise money. The month long event culminates July 29 in a 3 hour ice cream giveaway. This year’s giveaway is a free slice of gourmet ice cream cake. The Contra Costa Fire Department will be on hand 6-8 p.m. to give a fire engine demo. Cold Stone Creamery, Clayton Station Shopping Center, Clayton JULY 2-30 Friday Night Family Movies, Clayton Community Church 6 p.m. - 10 p.m. First movie will be Freaky Friday with Jamie Lee Curtis and Lindsay Lohan. Outdoor movies and social in the parking lot next to the Clayton Community Church offices, 6055 Main Street, Clayton. For information call Brad Carter, 673-2159. AUG 28 Rocky Run 2004 - Annual Motorcycle Poker Run, sponsored by the East Bay Chapter of the Iron Warriors Motorcycle Club Public safety organization of law enforcement officers and firefighters. Registration begins at 8:30 a.m. at McGuire Harley Davidson, 1425 Parkside Drive, Walnut Creek. Cost $15. Final destination is The Clayton Club Saloon in Clayton. Raffle, vendors, music, food. Fundraiser benefits The Wheelchair Foundation, National Community Empowerment Programs and Concerns of Police Survivors. All bikes welcome! Public welcome at The Clayton Club.
JULY 8, 15, 22, 29 Rotary Club of Clayton Valley Concord Sunrise @ Oakhurst 7 a.m. Meets every Thursday for breakfast meeting that usually features a speaker.www. claytonvalleyrotary.org Chuck Graham 689-7640. Oakhurst Country Club, 1001 Peacock Creek Drive, Clayton.
BUSINESS & GOVERNMENT JULY 6, 13, 20 Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors Meeting @ Clayton Library 9 a.m. County Board of Supervisors holds regular weekly meetings Tuesday mornings. Open to the public. www.co.contra-costa.ca.us 3351900. County Administration Building, 651 Pine Street, Room 107, Martinez. JULY 13, 27 Planning Commission Meeting @ Clayton Library 7p.m. City of Clayton Planning Commission meets 2nd & 4th Tuesday of month. Open to the public. www.ci.clayton.ca.us 673-7304, Clayton Library Community Room, 6125 Clayton Road, Clayton. JULY 8 Clayton Community Services Commission Meeting @ City Hall 7 p.m. City of Clayton Community Services Commission meets 2nd Thursday of month. Open to the public. www.ci.clayton.ca.us 6737304, Clayton City Hall Conference Room, 6000 HeritageTrail, Clayton. JULY 6, 20 Clayton City Council Meeting@ Clayton Community Library 6 p.m. City council meets on the first and third Tuesday of the month. Open to the public. Agendas posted at the following locations: City Hall, 6000 Heritage Trail, Clayton, Ohm’s Bulletin Board, 1028 Diablo St., Clayton, Clayton Community Library, 6125 Clayton Rd., Clayton.
CLUBS & ORGANIZATIONS JULY 8, 15, 22, 29 Weights Watchers Weekly Meeting 10 a.m., 5 & 6:30 p.m. Weekly Weight Watchers weigh-in & meeting on Thursday. Prospective members welcome. 800/326-8450 x2023.Contra Costa Farm Bureau, 5554 Clayton Rd., Concord. JULY 9 AARP Meeting @ Pleasant Hill Senior Center 1:30 p.m. July Meeting of AARP Mt. Diablo Chapter. Program will be "Travels with Shirley," speaker Shirley Garrison. Dialogue with slides, photos, albums and books. Refreshments served. Call Fred Nelson for information, 4511292, Pleasant Hill Senior Center, 233 Gregory Lane, Pleasant Hill.
SCHOOLS & EDUCATION JULY Clayton Valley High School Marching Band and Color Guard Training Pre-season training will begin late July. Currently looking for CVHS musicians, gymnasts, tumblers, and twirlers for the upcoming season. Color guard/drill team members needed too. For more information, e-mail ClaytonBands@aol.com by July 1.
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The Community Calendar is sponsored by T HE VAN F LEET-B RONSON T EAM Personal Service Makes The Difference 1536 Kirker Pass Rd., Suite D, Clayton 94517; Phone (925) 672-4333
www.CallTheVanFleetTeam We are proud to support the Children's Miracle Network, an alliance of premier hospitals in North America. The Children's Miracle Network treats over 17 million children each year for cancer, pediatric AIDS, muscular dystrophy, heart disease, leukemia, sickle cell anemia, asthma and accident trauma.
IN SUPPORT OF THIS COMPASSIONATE CAUSE, THE VAN FLEET-BRONSON TEAM WILL MAKE A DONATION on behalf of our client for EVERY TRANSACTION CLOSED BY OUR OFFICE.
Page 18
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Neighborly, from page 8 lying around. You need to be creative here. Hide toys or food treats for your dog to find. If your dog likes ice cubes, freeze treats in ice and leave them for him to play with. Rope toys can be soaked in water and frozen for added chewing fun for your dog. There are also many interactive toys to occupy your dog's mind while providing physical exercise. Ropes tied to trees and tire swings are fun for a dog to tug on when there is no one else around to play with. Indoors, leaving a radio or TV on will often provide a dog with enough distraction to keep him out of trouble. For really difficult to break barking problems, there are anti-barking collars, which deliver a mild shock or Citronella spray to discourage incessant barking. These devices are expensive and require training to use properly. They should be used only as a last resort. Dogs who like to dig need to be provided with an appropriate outlet for this desire. A sand box can be built for your dog, or an area of your yard can be designated as the digging spot. Use large rocks, dog
feces or upside-down mousetraps to discourage your dog from digging in inappropriate areas. Bury toys and treats in the area where you want your dog to dig and encourage exploration of this area. Dogs who are digging their way out of the back yard (or jumping the fence) might be better off in a contained dog run or indoors in an airline carrier or crate. Although your dog may be friendly and never wander out of the neighborhood when he is loose, you still are required by law to keep him confined to your property. Leash laws are enforced for our protection, the protection of property and the protection of other animals. If you really hate the idea of confining your dog, then perhaps doggy daycare or a pet sitter to check on your dog during the day are better options for you. Now, what about Mr. Jones' outdoor cats? Despite what many cat owners believe, they are responsible for the behavior of their pets. Cats are territorial, but their territories often extend beyond their owners' property. Responsible cat ownership
means knowing where your cat is at all times. Cats can be trained to stay in their own yards, and keeping cats indoors at night assures their safety and the solitude of the neighborhood for other residents. As with dogs, spaying or neutering your cat will make it less likely to roam and get into fights. There are many products on the market (some toxic, some not) designed to discourage cats from using your plants as a toilet area. Not all of these
“Despite what many cat owners believe, they are responsible for the behavior of their pets.” Julie Bond products are effective for every individual cat, so you may have to try several to find the one that works for you. In addition, dog feces, large stones and upside-down mousetraps can also be used to discourage cats from using your plants. Tan bark and
wood shavings should not be used if you have a cat problem, as they are extremely attractive "litter" choices for them. It is very important to be vigilant about your pet's behavior and how it may affect your neighbors. While it is true that some people just don't like animals and will take any opportunity to register a complaint, most people are at least tolerant of pet owners, as long as they are conscientious of other people's property and sensitivities. If you have a problem, it is best to deal with it quickly and calmly. Communication in a non-confrontational manner is key. If a heated debate ensues, enlist the help of an outside mediator. It is much cheaper and less stressful to solve petrelated problems without involving the authorities in your dispute. Being a good neighbor and a responsible pet owner requires work. Don't let inappropriate pet behavior keep you and your neighbors on opposite sides of the fence! Julie Bond is an animal behaviorist. She can be reached through Monte Vista Veterinary Hospital, 6721100.
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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Page 19
Swim from Alcatraz nets an “A” Clayton resident Veronica Brandt has been a swimmer for 13 years. When it came time to select her "senior project" at Clayton Valley High School, Veronica wanted to do "something involving swimming and something very different." One night while she was driving across the San Francisco Bay Bridge she
glanced over at Alcatraz and thought, "I wonder what it would be like to swim from there to San Francisco?" And Veronica's senior project took shape. Her friend Kevin Bowen offered to do the swim with her and the two began to make plans. Veronica's family rented boats to follow the two swimmers across the bay, offering encouragement and
support. “The water wasn't as cold as I expected it to be (but) I was wearing a wet suit," Veronica said It took Veronica a mere 42 minutes and Kevin 34 minutes to make the swim across the Bay. She explained that her biggest problem toward the end of the swim was the current, which pulled her
toward the Golden Gate Bridge. When they got to Aquatic Park the swimmers rested, ate bananas and drank hot chocolate. When asked why Veronica chose to do this swim, her mother Diana said, "Veronica always thinks outside the box." Veronica received an A for her senior project.
Several sports camps this summer at the YMCA If your kids are already telling you that they are bored and need something to do, then the Concord/Clayton YMCA is right here in your own community with a funfilled summer of sports activity. All types of sports camps and leagues are offered including baseball and softOCTAVIA BOND attended the ball, soccer, flag football, baseball camp and is looking basketball, volleyball and forward to returning in July for roller hockey. a second week of camp. Camps are for boys and
girls from first grade through ninth grade. All camps and leagues are held at the Clayton Community Gym. Coed baseball and softball is set for July 5-9; coed flag football, August 16-20; coed basketball, July 19-23; coed volleyball July 12-16 and August 2-6, coed soccer, July 26-30. A coed super sports camp is scheduled for August 9-13.Basketball ball, baseball and roller hockey leagues are ongoing through the summer.
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In addition adult classes and leagues are available. "We have an expert staff skilled in all areas, and we are excited about the opportunity to share our skills with local children," says Lisa Ramirez, District Vice President of the Concord/Clayton YMCA. For more information on the programs at Clayton Community Gym this summer, call 925-889-1600.
KEVIN BOWEN AND VERONICA BRANDT finish their swim from Alcatraz to Aquatic Park.
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Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
City Council Actions Following is a summary of the actions taken at the City Council meeting, June 15. BALANCED BUDGET APPROVED Council voted 5-0 to adopt the 2004/2005 operating budget and the Capital Improvement Project Budget. STOP SIGNS ON MARSH CREEK ROAD At the May 18 meeting, the Council voted against installing a traffic signal at Marsh Creek Road and Diablo Parkway, directing staff to further study the possibility of installing stop signs, instead. In a 5-0 decision, Council voted to 1) not install stop signs on Marsh Creek Road at Diablo Parkway or Russelman Road at this time, but to consider the establishment of a Russelman Park Road Traffic Signal Fee for future development projects in the Marsh Creek Road Specific Plan; and 2) that the funds that had been set aside for a traffic
signal be redirected to the 2004 Pavement Maintenance Project; and 3) to consider the re-signalization of the stop lights at Oakhurst golf cart crossings. MEASURE C ADOPTED After an extensive two year process, the Contra Costa Transportation Authority presented the final draft of Measure C, supporting the 25-year extension of Contra Costa’s half-cent sales tax for transportation use and detailing a Transportation Expenditure Plan. The Council voted 5-0 to adopt the resolution. DOWNTOWN ZONING CHANGED Council voted 5-0 to amend the General Plan Diagram to designate the downtown park site (The “Grove) as “Public Park/Open Space.” REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY BUDGET Clayton Community Redevelopment Agency, on which the city council sits as the
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board of directors, voted 5-0 to adopt the $3,771,086 Agency Budget for Fiscal Year 20042005. Expenditures include debt service (90.2 percent of available net revenues) for projects completed in the past. The remaining revenues go to agency management and operations and pavement rehabilitation. There are no funds available for new projects. GHAD BUDGET The Geological Hazard Assessment District, on which the council sits as the board of directors, voted 5-0 to pass a $28,782.50 budget for 2004/2005 operations and maintenance tasks in the city-owned open space areas. The City Council meets the first and third Tuesday of the month in the Community Library meeting room at 7 p.m. Call the city offices at 673-7300 for more information.
Biblical snacks on the sidelines
JOE ROMANO
SO ANYWAY... Being godfather to the children of two close friends, I consider myself blessed in that I have the opportunity to see and spend time with them. As a young lad, my godparents lived (and continue to do so) on the East Coast, so naturally our visits were sporadic at best. My godchildren, on the other hand, both live in my neck of the woods, which allows ample opportunity to bestow my wisdom upon them. A godparent’s duties are to act as sort of a spiritual role model, a reminder of God in
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their lives. As a godfather (and by the way don’t think I don’t love saying, “Come say hello to your godfather.”) I feel a certain obligation to play the role, to be that spiritual role model. But how to incorporate it into the activities we share, which to date have mainly been sporting events as my son and my godson recently played on the same Peanut league baseball team? This got me to thinking. What is the universal constant about all kids’ sporting events? Snack time! After each game the children eagerly scan the sidelines, like a colony of prairie dogs, for the parent with the cooler. God help the parent who forgets their snack day obligations. They best have a healthy supply of Kleenex and in some cases running shoes, as the bats have been known to be put to more creative uses. Well, I think I’ve come up with a way not only to provide a tasty treat but one that also offers the opportunity of a spiritual reminder—Biblical Theme Snacks. I think it’s a winner but then there are those that have openly questioned whether or not I have all my oars in the water. In any event here’s what I’ve come up with. Gummy Disciples. Not only a tasty treat but the kids will have a swell time trying to identify each of the 12, creating imaginary scenes of the
Last Supper, and biting the head off of Judas. Great fun. Risen Lord Ice Cream Push Ups. Enjoy as the Jesus shaped ice cream ascends towards the heavens. Confessional Trading Cards of all the mortal and not so mortal sins. Be the first on your block to collect all 10 commandments. Homemade cookies in the shape of your favorite Bible characters. Can YOU pick out Nicodemus? Bet you can’t! John the Baptist Sport Bottles. Cool off your teammates after those hot summer games. Garden of Eden candied apples. Betcha can’t resist ‘em! And for you health conscious parents, the Virgin Mary “Sin Free” Granola Snax. Though I make no promises that the devout will not make a pilgrimage to the playing field. As you can see, there are as many possibilities as there are patron saints, so grab your kids and join the fun. And, on the off chance that the proceeding column might be deemed blasphemous, I’ll be in the confessional. Hey, I think I’ve got that card. Clayton resident, Joe Romano, is a family man, a free-lance writer for hire and the Pioneer’s “all around funny guy.” E-mail him at jromano01@yahoo.com
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Page 21
Mt. Diablo horse culture thrives just a hop, skip and a trot away from the urban scene JOE ROMANO Clayton Pioneer
"Get a horse!" was the pragmatic advice supposedly hollered by onlookers as Henry Ford tooled past in his first Model T. In these times of skyrocketing gas prices one might still consider this to be very sage advice. In fact, there are plenty of folks in Clayton that have been taking that advice to heart since Joel Clayton first settled near the foothills of Mt. Diablo. While Clayton has grown both in size and price, it's still considered by many to be horse territory. Karen Cunningham, who owns and operates the Clayton Livery on Main Street, personally owns seven horses. Cunningham enjoys the rural feel that Clayton offers and says the riding trails are "fantastic." She particularly enjoys the Mitchell Canyon trail. Like Cunningham, Karen Starr is a 30-plus year resident of the Clayton area. Starr has been riding and raising horses since she was 8 years old and received her first pony at 9. "Mt. Diablo was a monumental place for me and my friends to ride our horses and explore. Seeing all the wildlife so close to the city, yet it seemed so far away." Starr has owned seven horses over the past 30 years and has been riding her current horse, Khutina, a "very young 19-year-old" Polish bred Arabian, for the past six years. She credits horses with teaching her responsibility, in addition to providing a fun way to stay in shape.
"No matter what other activities I was involved in with friends and school, the horses' care and upkeep had to come first. Cleaning a pasture with two horses in it could NOT be put aside." A longtime rider, Starr has probably rambled every horse trail Mt. Diablo has to offer (in addition to the drive-thru at McDonald's when Concord was more of a one-car town). A few of her favorites include "The Cadillac Trail" (named for the big old blue Cadillac that, years prior, had been dumped in a clearing) off of Morgan
Tamara Steiner/Clayton Pioneer
Layla Ann Wood and her pony, “Rosie”
Territory Road and one that she and her riding friends, known as "The Posse," have dubbed "The Dark Forest." "The Dark Forest is a singletrack trail with a 5-foot drop to a creek down one side. The
trees hang over the trail blocking out most of the sunlight, and the ground is covered in mulch, which softens the hoof beats. There are lots of ferns that grow along the path. It has a very enchanted feel to it. "Mt. Diablo and Clayton as a whole is 'Horse and Cattle Country,'" she says. "It is so close to the urban scene, but it's just a hop, skip and a trot away." Further out of town, you'll find about a half-dozen boarding and riding stables, including The Horse Place, a rambling 5-acre spread on Morgan Territory Road owned and operated by Laila and Brad Wood. I arrived for my tour at 9:30 on a soon-to-be very hot Monday morning. Aside from the barking dogs that ran to meet my car, it was very quiet. Laila met me on the front porch, and we began the tour tailed by two dogs and son Jimmy, 7. Wood, whose grandparents were ranchers, has been riding since her earliest memories. A lifelong horse owner, she always dreamed of being able to look out her window and see her horses, so when the opportunity to purchase The Horse Place presented itself three years ago, Laila and Brad grabbed it. They've never looked back. "It's a lot of work, but we'd never trade it for a move back to town." Wood said. In addition to Jimmy, the Woods have a 9-year-old daughter, Layla-Ann, who's been riding since she was four. Wood loves the fact that her kids have a lot of room to run and ride. In fact, they spend so
Tamara Steiner/Clayton Pioneer
Laila Wood on “Possum” holds her first horse,. 29-year old “Smokey. much time outside that the family does not even subscribe to a network television package. They have a satellite, which allows them to watch movies, but their home is a commercialfree television zone. The kids spend most of the daylight hours among the horses or riding the new mini-bike around the property. They also enjoy delivering the indigenous "byproduct" (a.k.a. manure) to the local pumpkin farm. One of the little-known costs of running a horse stable is disposing of this by-product. Wood would rather save the money and help her neighbor in the process. The Horse Place did not just represent a lifestyle change for the Wood family; it also is a necessary means of income. Brad works full time as an engineer when he's not playing resident handyman around the ranch, where something always
needs fixing. The barn holds 37 horses, all of which receive "full service" accommodations. Prices range from about $200 to $320 a month. Horses are fed daily, and their stalls are cleaned every day except for Sunday, which makes Monday mornings particularly busy. Owners are responsible for grooming and exercising their horses. There is no curfew imposed with regard to visitation hours. Laila feels owners should be allowed to visit their horses whenever they feel the need. So long as everyone is respectful with regard to noise, they're welcome anytime. Wood describes the atmosphere as "very communal," with all of the owners looking out for one another's horses. When a nearby fire got a little too close for comfort last year, the owners all left work early in case it became necessary to
move horses and equipment. When Starr's horse suffered a bout of colic, five other owners took turns walking her before Starr arrived to take over. Wood herself sleeps with a window open so she's able to hear the horses and remain alert for any problems. The Woods have created an environment that extends beyond the simple boarding of horses. Like family, everyone looks out for each other and everyone pitches in. As I left The Horse Place and crossed the bridge spanning the creek back to Morgan Territory Road, I was thinking about Henry Ford. If he had ever ridden through The Dark Forest, or seen the grass and granite peaks of Mt. Diablo, perhaps he would have been more apt to heed that piece of advice. And if he could see today's insane car culture, I could almost guarantee it.
Page 22
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
July 2, 2004
Simple rules for sensational summer skincare It’s summertime and the livin’ is easy. Schools are in recess, families relax beside swimming pools that sparkle like sapphires, and the aroma of
backyard barbecue is purely intoxicating on these sultry summer nights. How can it get better than this? With so many outdoor activities going on
between Memorial Day and Labor Day, here are a few suggestions for a healthy skincare regimen.
HYDRATE RENEW REFRESH REJUVENATE
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Anti-aging peels Hydrating facials Microdermabrasion Sunless tanning Face/body waxing SENSATIONAL SKIN CARE
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672-8990
Naturally, it’s easier to get our eight-plus glasses of water a day when the mercury soars, but we’re also more active in the summer, losing vital fluids through perspiration without much notice. So be vigilant about hydration. Our bodies are more than 70 percent water, so not only do we need sparkling, pure water to maintain a healthy electrolyte balance, but water also helps our brains function better and plumps up our skin. The big bonus is it also helps carry toxins away from all our organs, even our skin. If you can manage more than eight glasses per day, that’s even better.
PROTECT Come on, now! We live in Northern California, one of the most beautiful and diverse locations in the world. That’s the good news. The bad news is that even if we don’t physically sit out in the sun and bake our bodies, we are exposed to at
least seven hours of UV rays per week simply by being in our cars, walking along the pavement, going to the mailbox or chasing the dog around the park. Though not as strong, early morning and late afternoon sun still damages the skin. Sun block is vital to healthy skin. It’s true that most lotions and moisturizers contain at least an SPF 15, but remember, if your sun block is in a lotion, it’s diluted, and the factor is reduced to about an 8. Moisturizer with SPF 15 is good, but adding a sun block on top of that is even better. Enjoy the sun, but skip the sun damage.
MOISTURIZE Like anything else, moisturizers vary in price and quality, and you essentially get what you pay for. Inexpensive lotions and so-called moisturizers are chock-full of fillers and chemicals that do not fulfill the promises they make. Ingredients like wax, petroleum (essentially the same stuff that lubricates your car engine), and propylene glychol (also known as anti-freeze) provide lots of slip – and they glide on like
STRESS LESS
CYNTHIA GREGORY
LOOKIN’ GOOD magic — but they do nothing in the end but make your skin drier than before the slathering began. It’s worth the investment to rely on moisturizers that feed and nurture your precious skin. Ingredients such as shea butter, mango butter, coco butter and essential oils like avocado, almond or apricot oil are actually comprised of molecules small enough to be absorbed by the epidermis, and therefore penetrate the skin, rather than just slide around on the surface, getting on clothing and furniture and forming a slick on the surface of the backyard pool.
AEF ER ’S H C S Painting “We do it RIGHT” Guaranteed in writing 10% Off Exterior Complete 4
exp. 8/15/0
Cynthia Gregory holds a master's degree in fine arts and is a California licensed esthetician. She combines the surprising aspects of teaching English at Solano College and practicing esthetics at Permanent Solution, in downtown Clayton, and can be reached for comment at ceegregory@aol.com.
Bryan Schaefer
1-8800-2200-99440 License #708321
Family trade since 1936
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Mon dieu! As if time and gravity weren’t vigilant enough robbers of beauty, now it’s confirmed — stress produces notso-beautiful visible results! Marie Antoinette, who was famous for her beauty, her love of Louis, and for her “let them eat cake” speech, had luxurious hair that reportedly went white overnight after she was tossed in the Bastille and scheduled for the guillotine. Fortunately, life in the 21st century isn’t quite so dire, but the next time you’re stressed out, take a look at how this emotion shows up on your face. Frown lines are just one signal that things are not well in your world. When the sparkle in your eyes goes hard, alien breakouts pop up, or the lines surrounding your perfect rosebud mouth become rigid, take a break! Do an extra lap in the swimming pool, go Zen and breathe deep with a balancing Yoga session, get a facial or just relax with a good summer book and a tall glass of iced herbal tea mixed with your favorite fruit juice. Most of all, remember to breathe. Stress is likely to produce short, shallow breaths great for fight-or-flight situations, but prolonged modern-day stress has been proven to have serious health and beauty consequences that are almost completely preventable. It’s summer! Enjoy yourself and pamper your skin – because if you’re not worth it, who is?
Ol
. s die
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Come e xperience a c arefree l uxurious l ifestyle the D IAMOND TERRACE w ay. There a re o nly a f ew 1 a nd 2 bedroom a partments l eft! Take a dvantage o f t he s pecial Rental f ees s tarting a t $ 1,776 p er m onth.
Don’t m iss o ut! Call T ammy f or a ll t he d etails.
6401 Center Str eet Clayton, CA 94517
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July 2, 2004
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
Page 23
w Open o ! N Starting From $1675*
Newly built on the cusp of Clayton Valley, Áegis of Concord’s resort-like setting is the perfect place to call your new home. Complete with all the amenities usually found only at luxury hotels, Áegis provides independence, comfort and total peace of mind. Come tour Contra Costa County’s finest senior living community, call today for an appointment. ■
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Studios and 1 bedroom apartments ranging from 425 sq. ft. to 840 sq. ft. Spacious 2 bedroom apartments ranging from 1000 sq. ft. to 1680 sq. ft. Month to month rentals State-of-the-art theater Restaurant style service in our beautiful dining room Overlooking Newhall Park Located on Clayton Rd., Fitness center, swimming pool and between Treat Blvd. outdoor fireplace and Ygnacio Valley Rd. Full-service day spa Concierge service Assisted living services available
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Page 24
Clayton Pioneer • www.claytonpioneer.com
“W
hen you live in a place as exciting and beautiful as the Clayton Valley area, it’s hard not to be excited for each new day,” Lynne French says. “From the energy of the city to the natural setting of the country, there’s always something to keep me on the go.” Lynne brings this positive energy and love for the Clayton Valley to her long-running career as a real estate professional.
(925) 672-8787 www.LynneFrench.com Lynne@LynneFrench.com
July 2, 2004
Always focused on your needs throughout your home purchase or sale, she does whatever it takes to help you make the most of your opportunities. With Lynne and her team as your guides, you can Discover the Possibilities in Clayton Valley real estate. Her intimate knowledge of the area and dedication to your goals ensure your success when buying or selling a home. Give her a call today!
6200-E Center St. 1801 N. California Blvd.
Clayton, CA 94517 Walnut Creek, CA 94596
GEORGE VUJNOVICH,
Broker
(925) 672-4433
Each Office Is Independently Owned & Operated.
6160 Center Street, Suite E, Clayton 94517 georgevujnovich.com
PEACOCK CREEK AT OAKHURST COUNTRY CLUB
FALCON RIDGE AT OAKHURST COUNTRY CLUB
WINDMILL CANYON AT OAKHURST COUNTRY CLUB
PEACOCK CREEK AT OAKHURST COUNTRY CLUB
Absolutely Gorgeous "Belvedere" model on a premium view lot! 5 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, downstairs den & upstairs loft, approx. 4,100sf, 2 fireplaces, 4 car garage, huge great room with custom built-in. Living room & formal dining room. Extensive upgrades incl: dramatic front entry doors, 16" tile floors, lighting package, designer paint & window treatments. Gourmet granite kitchen with commercial grade stainless steel ovens (gas range & grill) dishwasher. Elegant master suite with balcony & views. Spectacular setting on a quiet cul-de-sac backing to open space with Mt. Diablo, canyon & ridge views! Large level lot features custom patio & walkways, outdoor kitchen island, inground pool with built-in raised spa & waterfall. $1,275,000
Just Listed! One of the BEST view lots at Oakhurst CC! Extensively upgraded One story "Champagne" model boasts magnificent un-obstructed views from valley to Delta! 3 bedrooms, den with French doors, 2.5 baths, approx. 2,542sf, 2 car garage with workshop/storage option. Upgraded tile floors throughout (except bedrooms)! Living & dining area features crown molding & built-in speakers. Gourmet kitchen with upgraded bullnosed slab granite counters, island & full backsplash, dual motorized skylights & cozy eating nook. Spacious master suite offers a romantic travertine tile fireplace. Premium private level lot on a quiet court backs to open space with refreshing in-ground pool with spa, waterfall and large custom patio. $899,900
Just Listed! Prime golf course view lot! Beautifully upgraded "Kirker" model backs to 5th fairway with course & hillside views. 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, approx. 2,313sf. Gorgeous 18" tile floors throughout 1st level & all baths. Upgraded door trim, baseboards & window coverings. Gourmet kitchen features bull-nosed solid slab granite counters & island, plus eating area with upgraded light & slider to patio with views! Family room with marble tile fireplace & wet bar. Spacious master suite offers a bay window sitting nook. Rear yard with large trellis covered deck & patio with relaxing spa looking out to golf course & gently rolling hills. $739,000
Spectacular "Belvedere" model on a prime view lot! 5 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, approx. 3,911sf, & a 4 car garage with workshop area, extensive built-in storage & workbench + rv/boat storage in huge paved side yard! Bedroom & full bath downstairs. Living room with fireplace. Formal dining room. Enormous great room with stacked stone two-way fireplace, walk-around bar, wired for surround sound with built-in speakers. Sunning master suite features a retreat & balcony offering sweeping views. Gourmet kitchen with upgraded tile counters, island, floor, dual motorized skylights & spacious pantry! Huge level view lot overlooks City, Carquinez Strait, surrounding hills & ridgeline. Professionally landscaped featuring custom patio, large lawn area, an assortment of colorful flowers & ornamentals, fountain room for an rv+boat & still plenty of room for a pool too! $1,125,000
NEW CONSTRUCTION CONCORD/ CLAYTON BORDER
VINEYARD/HORSE PROPERTY
PEACOCK CREEK AT OAKHURST COUNTRY CLUB
FALCON RIDGE AT OAKHURST COUNTRY CLUB
ING D N PE
Palatial Mediterranean Estate! Approx. 8,000sf, 4 bedrooms, 4 full baths, 2 half baths, 2 bonus rooms, library, enormous family room, formal dining & living rooms, 3 fireplaces. Grand foyer features a dramatic spiral staircase. Gourmet kitchen boasts commercial grade stainless steel appliances. Exceptional attention to detail from the state of the art mechanical systems to the rustic Italian doors & cabinetry throughout! Premium view lot overlooks city to Delta. Situated on a huge-approx. .70 acre lot on a quiet cul-de-sac. $2.5 million
Vinyard/horse property. Spectacular 4-year old, 1story, contemporary lodge-style home. 5 bedrooms, 3 baths, apx. 3,416sf, 3 car garage + rv & more parking. Enormous great room features a dramatic custom fireplace, 16" tile floors & soaring vaulted beam ceiling. Romantic master suite with fireplace, jetted tub & sitting patio with views. Apx. 1.00 acre lot boasts a vineyard & offers a shaded horse area surrounded by majestic Heritage oaks. An irreplaceable must see setting! $999,000
Beautiful "Belvedere" model on a private quiet court with hillside views! 5 bedrooms, 3.5 baths + downstairs den, downstairs bedroom & full bath, upstairs loft, approx. 4,100sf & 3 car garage! Living room & formal dining room. Huge great room with fireplace & walkaround bar. Gourmet kitchen features custom white "European" cabinetry, large pantry, granite tile counters, island, sunny window & upgraded tile floors. Neutral décor & upgraded window coverings. Spacious master suite. Park-like (approx. 1.05 acre) backyard with enormous level lawn area, professionally landscaped with inground pool with built-in spa adjacent to open space with access to hiking/walking trails! $1,200,000
ING D N PE
Stunning Single Story "Moonlight" model! On a prime view lot. 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, den, approx. 2,237sf, 3 car garage. Upgraded extended 16" travertine tile floors with granite tile inlay/accent. Neutral décor & upgrades throughout! Living room with dry bar. Formal dining with upgraded chandelier. Gourmet kitchen features granite tile counters, island & full tumbled travertine back-splash, travertine tile floors & raised panel maple cabinets. Family room offers a cozy travertine tile fireplace & views. Spacious master with slider to patio. Secluded lot backs to open space offering breath-taking panoramic views from valley to the Delta, aggregate patios & walks, lots of trees, flowers & ornamentals! $749,000